Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

Which type of anxiety disorder is characterized by a fear of social situations?

1. Panic disorder

2. Social anxiety disorder

3. Generalized anxiety disorder

4. Phobia

The correct answer is: Social anxiety disorder

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by an intense fear of social situations where individuals may be scrutinized or judged by others. This disorder often leads to avoidance of social interactions or significant distress in such situations, impacting daily functioning. People with social anxiety disorder often worry excessively about being embarrassed or humiliated in public, which can limit their ability to engage in normal activities such as attending parties, speaking in public, or even eating in front of others. The fear is typically disproportionate to the actual situation and can lead to significant impairment in social, academic, or work activities. In contrast, panic disorder involves recurrent unexpected panic attacks and the fear of the consequences of having another attack. Generalized anxiety disorder is marked by excessive anxiety and worry about various aspects of life without a specific focus on social situations. Finally, while phobias do involve fear, they usually pertain to specific objects or scenarios rather than the social interaction context that defines social anxiety disorder.