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A validated 17-item screening tool for social anxiety disorder
Rate how much each statement has bothered you during the past week
1. I am afraid of people in authority
2. I am bothered by blushing in front of people
3. Parties and social events scare me
4. I avoid talking to people I don't know
5. Being criticized scares me a lot
6. Fear of embarrassment causes me to avoid doing things or speaking to people
7. Sweating in front of people causes me distress
8. I avoid going to parties
9. I avoid activities in which I am the center of attention
10. Talking to strangers scares me
11. I avoid having to give speeches
12. I would do anything to avoid being criticized
13. Heart palpitations bother me when I am around people
14. I am afraid of doing things when people might be watching
15. Being embarrassed or looking stupid are among my worst fears
16. I avoid speaking to anyone in authority
17. Trembling or shaking in front of others is distressing to me
Clinical cutoff: Score ≥19 suggests social anxiety disorder
Developer: Connor et al. (2000)
Items: 17 questions
Score Range: 0-68
Clinical Cutoff: ≥19
Sensitivity: 72-79%
Specificity: 84-89%
Gold standard. Addresses negative thoughts, builds coping skills, includes gradual exposure.
Systematic, gradual confrontation of feared situations to reduce anxiety over time.
SSRIs, SNRIs, or beta-blockers may help. Often combined with therapy.
Practice conversation, assertiveness, and interpersonal skills in safe settings.
No. Shyness is a personality trait, while social anxiety disorder involves intense fear, significant distress, and avoidance that impairs functioning. Shy people can still engage socially; those with SAD often cannot.
It affects about 7-13% of people at some point. It is one of the most common mental health conditions, typically starting in adolescence.
With proper treatment, many people experience significant improvement or full remission. CBT has about 75% success rate. Some may have occasional symptoms but manage them effectively.
While alcohol may temporarily reduce anxiety, it worsens symptoms long-term, prevents learning coping skills, and can lead to dependence. People with SAD have higher rates of alcohol problems.
This is common and therapists understand. Options include online therapy, text-based counseling, or starting with phone sessions. Good therapists make the process gradual and comfortable.
Mild cases may improve with self-help resources and gradual exposure. Moderate to severe cases benefit greatly from professional treatment. Working with a therapist typically produces faster, more lasting results.
If social anxiety is significantly impacting your life: