Social phobias are characterized by fear and avoidance of situations in which a person may be subject to the scrutiny of others. It may begin in adolescence and may be associated with overprotective parents or limited social opportunity. Males and females are affected equally with this disorder. Shyness is different from social phobia. Shy people are able to participate in social functions, but people with social phobia are constrained by their condition to the point that it affects their ability to function in work and relationships. People with social phobia are at high risk for alcohol or other drug dependence because they may come to rely on drink or drugs to relax in social situations.
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