Social Phobia or Shyness?

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Social Phobia or Shyness?
Wed, 08-09-2006 - 12:20pm
Do You Have Social Phobia?

If you answer yes to three or more of these questions, you may have social phobia. If so, talk with your doctor or a therapist about your concerns. Social phobia can be mild, moderate, or severe.

  1. Are you afraid you'll embarrass yourself if you have to give a talk or attend a social gathering with people you don't know well?
  2. Do you sometimes panic in unfamiliar social situations?
  3. Do you know that your fear of social situations is unreasonable or excessive?
  4. Do you avoid social situations whenever possible?
  5. When you can't avoid social situations, do they cause significant distress or anxiety?
  6. Does your distress or fear of social gatherings interfere significantly with your work, relationships with friends and family, or normal routines?