Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

Which of the following is a common symptom of social anxiety disorder?

1. Excessive laughter in social settings

2. Intense fear of embarrassment in social situations

3. High levels of confidence in public speaking

4. Desire to socialize without anxiety

The correct answer is: Intense fear of embarrassment in social situations

Intense fear of embarrassment in social situations is a hallmark symptom of social anxiety disorder. Individuals with this condition often experience overwhelming anxiety when faced with social interactions or scenarios where they may be scrutinized or evaluated by others. This fear can be so debilitating that it significantly impacts their ability to engage in everyday activities such as attending gatherings, speaking in public, or even making eye contact. The concern about being judged or humiliated leads to a strong desire to avoid social situations altogether. In contrast, excessive laughter in social settings, high levels of confidence in public speaking, and a desire to socialize without anxiety do not align with the defining characteristics of social anxiety disorder. Those with social anxiety typically do not enjoy or feel confident in these situations; rather, they are often plagued by the fear of being embarrassed or negatively assessed by their peers, which makes the correct response an essential aspect of understanding this psychological condition.