Social Anxiety vs Shyness:

Social anxiety and shyness are distinct, though they can overlap in certain ways.

Here’s a breakdown of their differences:

Shyness

Definition: A personality trait or natural temperament where a person feels awkward, reserved, or hesitant in social settings.
Intensity: Generally mild and situational; people who are shy may feel discomfort in new or unfamiliar situations but can adapt over time.
Impact: Shyness typically doesn’t prevent someone from engaging in social activities, though it may make them feel self-conscious.
Duration: Often decreases as the person becomes more comfortable or familiar with the situation.
Treatment: Does not usually require professional intervention unless it leads to significant distress or avoidance.

Social Anxiety (Social Anxiety Disorder, or SAD)

Definition: A mental health condition characterized by intense fear or anxiety about being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social situations.
Intensity: Severe and persistent, often interfering with daily life and relationships.
Impact: Causes significant distress, leading to avoidance of social situations or enduring them with extreme discomfort.
Physical Symptoms: May include sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, nausea, or even panic attacks.
Duration: Chronic and pervasive, requiring ongoing management.
Treatment: Often treated with therapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy), medication, or both.

Severity: Shyness is less intense and doesn’t usually interfere significantly with a person’s life, while social anxiety is debilitating.
Avoidance: People with social anxiety often avoid situations altogether, while shy individuals may simply feel uncomfortable but still participate.
Physical Symptoms: Social anxiety is associated with noticeable physical symptoms and psychological distress, unlike shyness.
Root Causes: Shyness is usually innate and part of one’s personality, while social anxiety may develop due to negative experiences, trauma, or a genetic predisposition.

Shervan K Shahhian