The core fear in social anxiety or excessive shyness is one of negative evaluation by others. Most people can relate to feeling discomfort when they are the centre of attention – for example, public speaking is notoriously one of the most common fears.
People who struggle with social anxiety experience this discomfort disproportionately. They are extremely shy or self-conscious and will avoid social or performative situations (or endure them with distress) for fear of being judged, embarrassed or humiliated. Examples of avoided situations can include public speaking, everyday social interactions, speaking with authority figures, or eating or writing in public. The net effect of the avoidance can be interference in the person’s ability to meet their role obligations (e.g., in their social life, relationships, work) or goals.
Social Anxiety Disorder is a diagnosis given to people who experience very high levels of social anxiety, to the point of high distress or impairment. Social Anxiety Disorder is one of the most common anxiety disorders, with lifetime prevalence rates in Canada ranging from 8 – 13%.
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