Which type of anxiety disorder involves an intense fear of social situations?

The intense fear of social situations is the hallmark of social anxiety disorder. This condition involves significant anxiety and discomfort in social interactions, often leading individuals to avoid situations where they might be judged or scrutinized by others. Those affected may experience symptoms such as excessive worry about being embarrassed or humiliated, which can severely impact their daily lives and social functioning.

In contrast, selective mutism is characterized by an inability to speak in specific social situations despite being able to speak comfortably in other contexts, typically seen in children. Generalized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, but it does not focus specifically on social interactions. Agoraphobia involves anxiety related to being in situations where escape may be difficult or help unavailable, particularly outside one’s home or in crowded places, rather than focusing on fear of social situations. Thus, social anxiety disorder is the most fitting diagnosis for someone facing intense fear in social contexts.