What are the common pitfalls associated with variable variables in PHP and how can they be avoided?

Common pitfalls associated with variable variables in PHP include confusion and potential security risks. To avoid these pitfalls, it is recommended to use associative arrays instead of variable variables.

// Avoid using variable variables
$variable = 'example';
$$variable = 'value';
echo $example; // This can lead to confusion and is not recommended

// Use associative arrays instead
$variables = [];
$variable = 'example';
$variables[$variable] = 'value';
echo $variables['example']; // This is a safer and clearer way to achieve similar functionality