Quite common actually, dear-- clown phobia (coulrophobia) is pretty high up there on the list and a lot of people really do experience the terrible panic and fear that comes from it. Not surprising, seeing as how ever since we were little they've been portraying clowns in the media as horrific serial killers . Clowns creep me out, but not in a paralyzing way anymore. I watched 'IT' when I was about 7, and Pennywise freaked me the helllllll out . Didn't watch it again until I was maybe 13 (because I hated seeing clowns), and in between viewings I got really into Steven King works-- I started to appreciate the twisted genius of his books. When I watched it again, my love for the book made it easier to realize how perfectly crafted the film character was. Sure, he's still creepy as SHIT... but I can look at him and think straight back to how much I love the book . Anyway, my point is: if it's causing you distress, take baby steps and try to find out what works for you. Good luck, lady