Which disorder is characterized by intense fear of social situations due to worry about judgment?

• A. Panic Disorder
• B. Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• C. Agoraphobia
• D. Social Anxiety Disorder

Answer: (D)

Intense fear of social situations due to worry about judgment is the defining feature of Social Anxiety Disorder. In this condition, the person expects negative evaluation in social or performance contexts, such as speaking in front of others, meeting new people, or attending social gatherings, and reacts with severe anxiety or avoidance. The worry is typically disproportionate to the actual threat and persists across many situations, leading to noticeable impairment in work, school, or relationships. People with this disorder often experience physical symptoms like trembling, sweating, or blushing in social settings, which reinforces their avoidance.

Panic Disorder centers on recurrent panic attacks and the fear of having future attacks, not specifically about being judged in social situations. Generalized Anxiety Disorder involves chronic, excessive worry about a wide range of topics, not limited to social settings. Agoraphobia involves fear of situations where escape could be difficult or help unavailable, such as being in crowds or leaving home, rather than fear of being judged in social interactions.

Thus, the description aligns with Social Anxiety Disorder, characterized by a pronounced fear of social situations driven by concerns about negative evaluation.