Social+phobia

toc = = = Definition: = An irrational fear and avoidance of any social or performance situation in which one might embarrass or humiliate oneself is front of others by appearing clumsy, foolish, or incompetent. Gen Psych, Chapter 12, Pg. 386

**Causes**
Social phobia sometimes runs in families, but no one knows for sure why some people have it while others don't. Researchers have found that several parts of the brain are involved in fear and anxiety. By learning more about fear and anxiety in the brain, scientists may be able to create better treatments. Researchers are also looking for ways in which stress and environmental factors may play a role. [|Social Phobias]

= Examples: = Everyone has felt anxious or embarrassed at one time or another. For example, meeting new people or giving a public speech can make anyone nervous. But people with social phobia worry about these and other things for weeks before they happen. Or sitting by yourself in a room and worrying that the entire room is looking and talking about you. People with social phobia are afraid of doing common things in front of other people. For example, they might be afraid to sign a check in front of a cashier at the grocery store, or they might be afraid to eat or drink in front of other people, or use a public restroom. Most people who have social phobia know that they shouldn't be as afraid as they are, but they can't control their fear. Sometimes, they end up staying away from places or events where they think they might have to do something that will embarrass them. For some people, social phobia is a problem only in certain situations, while others have symptoms in almost any social situation. Social Phobias

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