Social Phobia /= Shyness Article

[Opaline]

Good article that explains how some people who seem socially competent can still have SAD. It also touches upon the myth that people with SA are narcissists (in fact, the article explains that we have "reverse narcissism").

Social Phobia

I think I am sort of like what the article is describing, as far as being socially competent goes. I can be socially awkward, but not always, and I can do some things that others with more severe social phobia cannot, such as giving a speech or presentation. It just shows there is a continuum for this disorder, like most anxiety disorders.

 

[kihira]

"Reverse Narcissism

Individuals with SAD experience what I call “reverse narcissism”. While those with narcissism have an inflated sense of self and direct the spotlight onto themselves, people with social anxiety have a deflated sense of self and avoid this illusory spotlight. Because SAD sufferers believe all attention is focused on them with ready criticisms toward any mistake made (real or imagined), they often exert much effort to avoid social/performance situations at all cost. If unavoidable, they may become overwhelmed with intense anxiety that can lead to physiological reactions, such as racing heart, hyperventilation, sweating, nausea, dizziness, headache, stomachache, etc., and result in a panic attack."

Yep, extremely low self esteem

 

[Mokkat]

first time I've seen the comparison of SAD being the opposite of narcissism - interesting and to the point article

 

[coyote]

i thought this was good, too:

The often misunderstood component is the “performance” condition. Social anxiety sufferers intensely fear being rejected, criticized, judged, or simply perceived unfavorably when having to perform. Although these presumed negative consequences can occur in “social” situations, not all social environments require you to “perform”. Thus, an individual with SAD can be socially sophisticated until s/he imagines the possibility of being disapproved while having to perform (e.g., giving a speech, playing piano at a recital, kicking a goal at a soccer competition).

 

[Lea]

Hm,that's not me,I am not a competent or popular person who is simply just afraid. I am rather the exact opposite. I am courageous,but that doesn't help being shy and awkward,it's what the body does alone,that's why there is no way to learn,learning social skills alone doesn't help,in fact is a total vs that's not where the problem is.

 

[squidgee]

Makes me think about all the people at my school which might have SA. Although I struggle most of the time in normal conversations, I actually feel sort of comfortable doing a presentation or something in front of an audience. I'm thinking its because its normal to feel apprehensive and nervous in a situation like that.