Social phobia: an update on treatment
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 20, 2026

Social Threat-Safety Test Uncovers Psychosocial Stress-Related Phenotypes
Published on: December 15, 2023
Ellen C Jørstad-Stein1, Richard G Heimberg
1Adult Anxiety Clinic of Temple, Department of Psychology, Temple University, 1701 North 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122-6085, USA.
Abstract:
Social phobia is a prevalent anxiety disorder that may be treated with pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, or both. This article reviews the empirical evidence for these interventions and discusses new treatment developments. Active ingredients and mechanisms involved in the effectiveness of treatment are discussed. In addition, the elements of social phobia and its treatment that are similar to other anxiety and non-anxiety disorders are considered. Finally, it discusses future efforts to improve diagnosis and treatment for social phobia, including possible revisions to the diagnostic criteria that might be considered in the forthcoming fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, as well as routine care and obstacles for dissemination.
Related Concept Videos
Social Anxiety Disorder
Behavior Therapy
Exposure therapy is a cornerstone of behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders. It involves systematic exposure to feared stimuli, either in real...
Treatment Strategies for Psychological Disorders
Psychological therapies focus on modifying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through talking, interpreting, listening, rewarding, challenging, and modeling. Clinical psychologists, counselors, and social workers commonly practice psychotherapy. Clinical...
Preparedness and Phobias
Social Facilitation
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
