Betty, when I read the subject of your post, “Development” of Thunderstorm Phobia; it reminded me of a situation a friend shared with me.

They were out on beautiful, sunny day having a family lunch on the beach – parents, kids and the family dog, a rock solid little 4 yr old shepherd cross. After a few hours, in rolled the dark clouds and the thunder boomers to boot. This dog had never so much as flinched when it heard thunder and this occasion was no different. They were enjoying the light show when all of a sudden a torrential downpour started.

Mom panicked, all the food and clothes were spread all over the beach. Dad started running around, grabbing toys and kids and scurrying them to the car. Kids were screaming because they were getting wet. And no one was paying any attention to the dog who was caught up in the frenzy, madly barking and underfoot.

To this day, this dog has no fear of thunder, whatsoever; but it is absolutely terrified of the rain.

 Quote: Kathy Gray

I have threatened my husband to death if he registers any emotion at all during a storm.

Kathy, I think this is absolutely critical. My husband as well, lives with this fear. He better be feeling nothing less than like he’s won the national lottery each time one of those babies rumbles or cracks.