Theories of Social Phobia
Learning and Cognitive Theories of Social Phobia: Causation,
Maintenance, and Treatment
University Of Newcastle
Social Phobia, also know as Social Anxiety Disorder, affects between 7 -13% of individuals in western society (Furmark, 2002). It usually presents during adolescences and is typically chronic and lifelong (Veale, 2003). Two theories have been commonly used to explain the development and maintenance of the phobia: learning theory and cognitive theory. Both theories alone do not provide a comprehensive treatment plan, however when used in conjunction are much more effective. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) identifies both behavioural and cognitive aspects of social phobia. By addressing ongoing interaction between thought, feelings, and behaviour, it aims to positively restructure an individual’s response to social interactions. It successfully combines client education, exposure to fearful situations, and cognitive restructuring to alleviate anxiety and develop a realistic outlook toward social situations.
Social Phobia is made up of problematic emotions, behaviours, and automatic thoughts that are interconnected and mutually causal. It manifests as a marked and persistent fear of negative evaluation in social or performance situations (Veale, 2003). There are two subtypes of social phobia: generalized (fear of all social situations) and non-generalized (fear of specific situations, such as public speaking). Diagnostic features of the disorder are addressed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2000). Symptoms include cognitive, behavioural, and somatic symptoms. Meeting criteria for diagnosis must include the extent to which these concerns are interpreted to cause distress in an individuals career, relationships, or daily routines (APA, 2000). Anxiety and its associated behaviours resulting from social or performance situations
Maintenance, and Treatment
University Of Newcastle
Social Phobia, also know as Social Anxiety Disorder, affects between 7 -13% of individuals in western society (Furmark, 2002). It usually presents during adolescences and is typically chronic and lifelong (Veale, 2003). Two theories have been commonly used to explain the development and maintenance of the phobia: learning theory and cognitive theory. Both theories alone do not provide a comprehensive treatment plan, however when used in conjunction are much more effective. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) identifies both behavioural and cognitive aspects of social phobia. By addressing ongoing interaction between thought, feelings, and behaviour, it aims to positively restructure an individual’s response to social interactions. It successfully combines client education, exposure to fearful situations, and cognitive restructuring to alleviate anxiety and develop a realistic outlook toward social situations.
Social Phobia is made up of problematic emotions, behaviours, and automatic thoughts that are interconnected and mutually causal. It manifests as a marked and persistent fear of negative evaluation in social or performance situations (Veale, 2003). There are two subtypes of social phobia: generalized (fear of all social situations) and non-generalized (fear of specific situations, such as public speaking). Diagnostic features of the disorder are addressed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2000). Symptoms include cognitive, behavioural, and somatic symptoms. Meeting criteria for diagnosis must include the extent to which these concerns are interpreted to cause distress in an individuals career, relationships, or daily routines (APA, 2000). Anxiety and its associated behaviours resulting from social or performance situations
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