Which psychiatric condition is characterized by a persistent fear of social situations?

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by an intense and persistent fear of social situations where a person may be exposed to scrutiny or judgment by others. This condition often leads to significant anxiety in circumstances such as public speaking, meeting new people, or participating in group settings. Individuals with social anxiety disorder are usually concerned about embarrassing themselves or being negatively evaluated, which can result in avoidance of social interactions altogether.

This condition manifests differently from generalized anxiety disorder, which involves excessive worry about various aspects of life rather than a specific focus on social scenarios. It is also distinct from panic disorder, where episodes of panic attacks occur unpredictably and are not linked solely to social situations. Obsessive-compulsive disorder involves intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors but does not primarily revolve around the fear of social evaluation.

Thus, the defining characteristics of social anxiety disorder—focusing on fear and avoidance of social situations—make it the accurate choice in identifying this psychiatric condition.