Is your child's extreme reticence normal temperamental shyness or social anxiety disorder? Understanding the distinctions and treatment approaches.
Social anxiety disorder (social phobia) is characterized by intense fear and anxiety in social or performance situations. Unlike normative shyness, social anxiety disorder substantially restricts daily functioning and developmental opportunities.
Clinical manifestations include avoidance of classroom participation, difficulty establishing friendships, refusal to attend social events, and excessive anxiety in public settings. The fear must be persistent, typically lasting six months or more.
Cognitive behavioral therapy represents the most efficacious treatment modality for social anxiety disorder. Social skills training and graduated exposure techniques are systematically employed to reduce avoidance behaviors and build social confidence.
Doç. Dr. Mehtap Eroğlu
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. Over 15 years of clinical experience.
