Social Phobia

People with social phobia have a persistent, intense, and chronic fear of being watched or judged by others. They can appear as extremely shy or aloof. They are in constant fear of being embarrassed or humiliated by their own actions. This fear may be so severe that it interferes with work or school, and everyday social events. Physical symptoms often accompany the intense anxiety of social phobia and include blushing, profuse sweating, trembling, nausea, and difficulty talking.

People with social phobia can usually interact easily with family and a few close friends. But meeting new people, talking in a group, or speaking in public can cause extreme anxiety.


Social Phobia Test

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  • You frequently had stomach or headaches as a child or teenager.
  • You find social situations uncomfortable.
  • You avoid or dread social situations.
  • You are uncomfortable writing in public or being the center of attention.
  • You worry people will find you unintelligent, uninteresting or somehow negatively judge you.
  • You blush easily and are worry someone will notice and comment.
  • You tremble, sweat, and have palpitations when having to perform in public.
  • You often feel lonely and wish you could be more outgoing and self-confident.
  • You drink or self-medicate prior to a social engagement.
  • You worry about upcoming events, and become more worried as the date approaches.
  • You have or do make up excuses to get out of a social or work obligation due to your anxiety.
  • You are more comfortable with children or adults much older than yourself.
  • Your symptoms become worse when you are with someone of authority or perceived authority.
  • You are preoccupied with the need to be near a bathroom at all times.
  • You suffered from separation anxiety as a child.
  • You feel more comfortable with people when you are more familiar with them.