This article discusses the relationship between Jaws and the growing phenomenon known as selachophobia. Virtually non-existent prior to the films release, selachophobia is a phobia in which individuals are scared for their lives every time they step foot in the ocean. In some instances, individuals are so irrational about their fears that they cannot even go into a harmless bathtub without thinking they will be eaten. Although the idea of shark attacks had been prevalent since 725 B.C., Jaws put these ideas out there for millions to see in a seemingly realistic setting. Previously it had seemed a myth, however the shark Spielberg created was the size of a true great white that really did roam the water. The reality of the situation is brought to its height in Quint’s dramatic portrayal of his experience on the U.S.S. Indianapolis, a real ship wreck that lost hundreds at sea, many the result of shark attacks. All of a sudden shark attacks didn’t seem so far fetched-they were undeniably all over the ocean and a real life example had been provided. These aspects, blended with the brilliant suspense and terror scenes in the film worked to greatly heighten the fear of sharks. Many of us have an extremely mild case of selachophobia, in which we think about the possibility of sharks when we step in the ocean, however we can overcome this fear. For some though, this fear hit closer to home and had a more profound impact on their decision-making after seeing the film. According to the source, this fear not only would keep individuals out of the water, however it also would be a leading cause of the backlash against sharks. These individuals sough revenge against sharks, which would be evident in the decline in many species of sharks and the potential extinction of certain types.