Social anxiety is characterized by a fear of social situations, ranging from more intimate encounters to group settings. The fear can be so severe that it interferes with activities of daily living. Social anxiety is the third most prevalent psychological disorder in the United States, according to the Social Anxiety Institute. Adults are not the only ones who suffer from this disorder; children and adolescents can be affected as well.
Physical Symptoms
Social anxiety in children can manifest itself through a variety of physical symptoms. However, these signs can be misdiagnosed as other medical conditions. For that reason, if a parent or guardian believes a child might be suffering from social anxiety, it is important to consult a medical professional for a complete evaluation. Physical symptoms include increased sweating, headache, dizziness, increased heart rate, shakiness, and nausea and vomiting. The onset of these symptoms can occur during a social event or even months, weeks or days prior to it, worsening as the situation approaches. The severity of the symptoms depends on the child and the level of anxiety that the situation causes.
Situational Symptoms
As a coping mechanism, children with social anxiety may react in specific ways to prevent or cope with their anxiety. Often children with this condition prefer to be alone. In school they work alone, eat lunch alone and distance themselves from the group. Often they find solitary activities and projects to occupy their time to avoid the possibility of encountering a social situation that could be embarrassing or uncomfortable.
Behavioral Symptoms
When observing children with social anxiety disorders, certain behaviors are typical. These children tend to speak very softly when addressing others and generally do not initiate conversations. During conversations, they often find it difficult to make eye contact. In addition, children with social anxiety tend to cling to close family relationships, and they find safety in the companionship of those who are familiar to them, such as parents and siblings. The anxiety produced by the thought of being in a socially uncomfortable situation can cause extreme worry. They spend much time and effort worrying about all of the potential outcomes of situations that might not even occur.
