A persistent irrational fear of situations in which the person may be closely watched and judged by others, as in public speaking, eating, or using public facilities (see also simple phobia ).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Social phobias are characterized by fear and avoidance of situations in which a person may be subject to the scrutiny of others. The fear may be complicated by a lack of social skills due to lack of practice or to a high level of anxiety . Everyday activities may generate anxiety, and the fears may be specific, such as using public restrooms or eating in public. The onset may occur in adolescence and be associated with parental overprotectiveness or limited social opportunity. Males and females are affected equally with this disorder.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to help the person function effectively. The success of the treatment usually depends upon the severity of the phobia. Systematic desensitization is a behavioral technique used to treat phobias. It based upon having the person relax, then imagine the components of the phobia, working from the least fearful to the most fearful. Graded real life exposure has also been used with success to help people overcome their fears. Social skills training may involve social contact in a group therapy situation to practice social skills. Role playing and modeling are techniques used to help the person gain comfort in relating to others in a social situation. Antianxiety and antidepressive medications are sometimes used to help relieve the symptoms associated with phobias.
Expectations (prognosis)
The outcome is generally good with treatment, and antidepressant medications have been shown to be very effective.
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider or mental health professional if fear is affecting your social skills or impacting relationships with others.
Prevention
Measures to improve self esteem are helpful. Social skills training may be helpful.