Head for heights

A head for heights is frequently cited as a requirement when mountain hiking or climbing for a particular route, as well as when paragliding and hang-gliding.

It is needed for certain jobs, such as for wind turbine technicians, chimney sweeps, roofers, steeplejacks and window cleaners.

When one finds oneself in an exposed place at a great height, one normally feels one’s own posture as unstable.

A normal fear of falling can generate feelings of anxiety, as well as autonomic symptoms like outbreaks of sweat.

Firstly, there is the innate so-called "cliff edge phenomenon", whereby even toddlers, as well as many animals, avoid large drops, even without having previously had a bad experience.