Most people can relate to getting butterflies in their stomachs before starting a new school or giving a presentation in class. But for some teens, the fear of doing or saying the wrong thing?and consequently being judged by their peers?can be overwhelming. For these kids, navigating the social complexities of junior high and high school can feel like tiptoeing through a minefield because their social anxiety goes beyond what?s considered normal. It?s estimated that up to eight percent of all youth will meet the criteria for social anxiety disorder, which is the most common type of anxiety disorder.
What is social anxiety disorder"
?Social anxiety is an intense and overwhelming fear of being judged in social or performance situations,? explains Lynn Miller, a registered psychologist and co-chair of the Scientific Advisory Committee for Anxiety Canada. Picture a teen walking down the hallway at school. Instead of chatting with friends or considering typical adolescent thoughts like ?Is it lunchtime yet"? they worry about their outfits, complexion and hair. They imagine that others notice their acne or clothing and then gossip about them.
?These kids feel like they?re under the spotlight all the time,? says Miller. ?It?s out of proportion to the situation.?
They also fear that their peers will know they?re anxious and, for example, see them blush when they?re called on in class. As a result, teens with social anxiety disorder begin to avoid situations that, literall...