AQUAPHOBIA or waterphobia, is an abnormal, persistent fear of water. The fear is beyond a person's control, and may interfere with daily life. People suffer from it even though they may realize that a pool, ocean, or even a bathtub poses no imminent threat. People who can calmly execute survival swimming skills have a conventional "fear," and respect for the water. However when aquaphobia is present, fear has morphed into a negative, counterproductive influence.