Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

Which of these may indicate the severity of social anxiety disorder?

1. Frequency of panic attacks in social situations

2. Number of friends maintained by the individual

3. Quality of academic performance

4. Time spent on hobbies

The correct answer is: Frequency of panic attacks in social situations

The frequency of panic attacks in social situations is a strong indicator of the severity of social anxiety disorder. Individuals with this disorder often experience overwhelming fear and anxiety in social interactions, which can lead to panic attacks. The occurrence and intensity of these attacks can reflect how severely the disorder is impacting the person's life. Higher frequency and intensity are typically associated with more significant impairment in social functioning and an increased level of anxiety in social situations. In contrast, while maintaining friendships can provide insight into an individual's social functioning, it does not directly measure the internal experience of anxiety or fear associated with social situations. Similarly, academic performance and time spent on hobbies, while potentially influenced by social anxiety, are not direct indicators of the disorder's severity. Academic performance might reflect various factors beyond social anxiety, such as intelligence, motivation, or environmental supports, and engaging in hobbies may vary widely among individuals for many reasons unrelated to anxiety levels. Therefore, monitoring panic attacks serves as a clearer and more direct measure of the severity of social anxiety disorder.