Which disorder is characterized by the intense fear of being judged in social situations?

The disorder characterized by an intense fear of being judged in social situations is Social Anxiety Disorder. This condition manifests as an overwhelming worry about being embarrassed or humiliated in front of others, leading to significant distress and avoidance of social interactions. Individuals with Social Anxiety Disorder may fear situations such as public speaking, meeting new people, or attending social gatherings, where they believe they may be scrutinized.

In contrast, Major Depressive Disorder primarily involves persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest, without the specific focus on social judgment. Generalized Anxiety Disorder pertains to excessive worry about a variety of topics, not limited to social situations, and includes symptoms like restlessness and fatigue. Panic Disorder involves recurrent panic attacks characterized by sudden feelings of intense fear or discomfort, but does not inherently involve a fear of social judgment.