Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

Individuals with social anxiety disorder often fear which of the following?

1. Being praised in public

2. Being the center of attention

3. Participating in private conversations

4. Engaging in solitary activities

The correct answer is: Being the center of attention

Individuals with social anxiety disorder primarily experience an intense fear of being the center of attention. This condition leads them to worry excessively about being judged or evaluated negatively by others. The thought of drawing attention can provoke significant anxiety, making situations where they might be singled out particularly distressing. This fear can manifest in various social contexts, such as giving speeches, attending parties, or even engaging in casual conversations where they might feel scrutinized. People with social anxiety disorder often go to great lengths to avoid situations where they fear they will be the focus of attention, which can limit their social interactions and impact their quality of life. The other scenarios listed do not typically elicit the same level of fear associated with social anxiety disorder. For instance, while being praised in public may create some anxiety for an individual, it is generally not as universally feared as being the center of attention. Participating in private conversations and engaging in solitary activities are less likely to trigger the social apprehension characteristic of this disorder, as they do not involve public scrutiny or evaluation.