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Social phobia: a debilitating disease that needs treatment
J J López-Ibor1, J L Ayuso Gutierrez
1Department of Psychiatry, San Carlos University Hospital, Madrid, Spain.
International Clinical Psychopharmacology
|February 18, 1998
Summary
Social phobia is a distinct clinical condition, differing from normal shyness in its severity, impact on daily life, and the nature of anxiety experienced. This recognized disorder is comparable in definition to other psychiatric conditions without identified brain damage.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Anxiety Disorders
Background:
- Social phobia is a recognized clinical condition.
- It is as well-defined as other psychiatric disorders lacking identified brain damage.
- Pathological and normal anxiety exhibit both qualitative and quantitative differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate social phobia from normal shyness.
- To highlight the distinct characteristics of social phobia.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative and quantitative analysis of anxiety.
- Assessment of distress, impact on daily activities, and duration of the condition.
Main Results:
- Clear distinctions exist between social phobia and normal shyness.
- Social phobia involves significant distress and impacts daily functioning.
- The anxiety in social phobia is qualitatively different from normal anxiety.
Conclusions:
- Social phobia is a clearly defined psychiatric disorder.
- The severity, functional impact, and nature of anxiety distinguish it from shyness.
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