A psychologist explains social anxiety and why it’s serious


Summary

Social anxiety extends beyond worrying about appearance, involving excessive concern about actions, speech, and perception by others. It affects 11% of teenage girls and can lead to higher dropout rates, educational challenges, and increased likelihood of divorce. Genetic factors, lack of social skills, and developmental influences like appearance comparisons and pubescent changes play a role in social anxiety. LGBTQ individuals may face added hurdles that exacerbate social anxiety, which can escalate to generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder. Seeking help and undergoing behavioral treatments can greatly alleviate social anxiety and its potential negative impacts.


Introduction to Social Anxiety

Social anxiety goes beyond worrying about appearance or what others think. It involves excessive worry about actions, speech, and perception by specific individuals or anonymous others.

Statistics on Social Anxiety

Social anxiety affects 11% of teenage girls but the prevalence changes among older age groups. The impact of social anxiety includes higher dropout rates, challenges in education, and increased likelihood of divorce.

Factors Contributing to Social Anxiety

Social anxiety often runs in families, indicating a genetic component. Individuals with social anxiety may lack essential social skills, and early developmental factors like appearance comparisons and pubescent development can also contribute. LGBTQ individuals may face additional challenges leading to social anxiety.

Impact of Social Anxiety

Social anxiety can lead to generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. Individuals with social anxiety have a high prevalence of drug or alcohol dependence. Seeking help and undergoing behavioral treatments can significantly improve social anxiety.

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