Social Anxiety Disorder vs Shyness - How to Fix It

Dr. Tracy Marks discusses the differences between social anxiety and shyness, highlighting the history and criteria of social anxiety disorder. She explains how social anxiety can severely impact daily life and differentiates it from shyness. The video covers treatment options, including medication and cognitive behavior therapy, and delves into performance anxiety and the use of beta blockers. Dr. Marks also explains cognitive restructuring and exposure therapy as methods to manage social anxiety, providing practical steps for desensitization.

What is a key difference between social anxiety and shyness?

• Shy people are always socially awkward.

• Social anxiety involves a fear of being judged or humiliated.

• Shyness is a medical condition.

• Social anxiety does not affect daily functioning.

Which of the following is NOT a behavior associated with social anxiety?

• Feeling immobilized in public.

• Easily starting and maintaining conversations.

• Asking many questions to avoid talking about oneself.

• Avoiding eye contact during conversations.

Which medication is NOT approved by the FDA for treating social anxiety?

• Venlafaxine

• Paroxetine

• Sertraline

• Gabapentin

What is performance anxiety specifically related to?

• Fear of playing musical instruments.

• Fear of speaking in front of a group.

• Fear of writing exams.

• Fear of traveling alone.

What is the purpose of cognitive restructuring in treating social anxiety?

• To avoid social situations.

• To increase medication dosage.

• To challenge distorted thoughts about fears.

• To eliminate all fears instantly.

What is the first step in building a fear ladder?

• Looking at a picture of people chatting.

• Giving a speech to a crowd.

• Attending a large social event.

• Avoiding all social interactions.

How does exposure therapy help in treating social anxiety?

• By gradually exposing oneself to fearful situations.

• By avoiding all social interactions.

• By taking medication before every social event.

• By ignoring the fear completely.