What is a key feature of Social Anxiety Disorder?

The key feature of Social Anxiety Disorder is characterized by an intense fear or anxiety in social situations, which is often related to a fear of being judged, embarrassed, or criticized by others. This disorder can manifest in various ways, including significant worry about potential failure in social interactions. Individuals may overly focus on how they are perceived and fear that their performance won’t meet their own or others' expectations, leading to heightened anxiety.

While complete avoidance of social interactions can occur as a coping mechanism for the anxiety associated with the disorder, it does not encompass the full range of experiences individuals have with social anxiety. The concern and fear of failing in social situations is what underlines much of the anxiety, making it a central feature of Social Anxiety Disorder. Indifference to others' opinions typically relates to a lack of concern, which contrasts sharply with the experiences of those with the disorder. Likewise, the idea of feeling intense pleasure in social situations does not align with the experience of social anxiety, as the condition often leads to distress and discomfort rather than enjoyment.