Social Phobia Disorder
Write a term paper that contains five full pages describing Social Phobia disorder (as so known as Social Anxiety Disorder) from a biopsychosocial perspective.
Describe the disorder in terms of symptoms, describe biological, psychological, and social causes of the disorder and include information about treatment.
Symptoms may be described in terms of emotional symptoms, cognitive symptoms, behavioral symptoms, somatic symptoms, and impairment in social and occupational functioning.
Biological explanations may include the following: Brain structure and function, genetics, hormones, evolution/natural selection, neurotransmitters (oversupply, under supply, dysfunction)
Psychological explanations may include the following: Learning, memory, personality traits, cognition (thought patterns), trauma/stress, emotion/mood
Sociocultural explanations may include the following: Gender roles, socioeconomic status, locations (city or rural), school/education, cultural values, poverty
Treatment may include medications, cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, group therapy, client centered therapy
Sample Solution
Social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by an intense fear of being judged or scrutinized by others in social settings (APA, 2013). This can lead to feelings of embarrassment and may cause individuals to avoid certain social situations entirely. Common symptoms associated with this disorder include difficulty making eye contact, increased heart rate when around other people, physical sensations such as sweating and trembling, distress in unfamiliar environments or conversations with strangers (APA, 2013).
From a biopsychosocial perspective there are multiple causes attributing to the development of this disorder. Biological factors such as genetic predisposition have been linked to the presence of this disorder – research suggests that those who suffer from it are more likely than those without it to have first-degree relatives affected by the same diagnosis (Lancioni et al., 2016). Environmental factors can act as triggers – for example childhood peers who tease or ridicule might increase vulnerability towards developing social phobia (Kazarian & Freyd 2009). Also experiences like traumatic events can contribute significantly to gaining fear and tension in specific contexts later on life.
Treatment for social phobia typically includes cognitive behavioral therapy focusing on challenging irrational beliefs perpetuating fear responses while gradually introducing individuals into feared situations prescribed medications if deemed necessary depending upon severity. Antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors might be used alongside psychotherapy but need careful consideration due to potential side effects they produce. Self help through relaxation techniques has also proven effective along with regular exercise and healthy diet.
To summarize, social phobia is an anxiety disorder which involves both biological predispositions including genetic influences as well environmental conditions which act as triggers for its development. Effective treatment plans involve combination of psychotherapy combined with medication when necessary designed at helping overcome fearful responses related with entering particular places or engaging in given activities.
