Which disorder is characterized by a persistent, irrational fear of public situations?

The disorder characterized by a persistent, irrational fear of public situations is social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder. Individuals with this condition experience intense fear or anxiety in situations where they might be judged, embarrassed, or scrutinized by others. Common triggers include public speaking, meeting new people, or eating in public. This fear can be so overwhelming that it interferes significantly with daily activities and social interactions.

While agoraphobia involves a fear of situations in which escape might be difficult or help unavailable, particularly in crowded places or outside of home, it does not specifically center on the fear of social interactions. Bipolar disorder refers to mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression), and obsessive-compulsive disorder involves unwanted repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and/or actions (compulsions). Neither of these disorders focuses specifically on fear of public situations in the way social phobia does.