In a case of social anxiety disorder, which factor distinguishes it from agoraphobia?

In social anxiety disorder, the primary factor distinguishing it from agoraphobia is that the fear is specifically triggered by the presence of people. Individuals with social anxiety disorder experience intense fear or anxiety regarding social situations where they may be scrutinized or judged by others. This fear can manifest in various scenarios, such as public speaking, meeting new people, or eating in public.

In contrast, agoraphobia involves a fear and avoidance of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable in the event of a panic attack or similar symptoms. While both disorders can lead to significant distress and impairment, the context of the fear—whether it is social interactions or the nature of public settings—is what differentiates them. Understanding this distinction is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment, as the therapeutic approaches may vary between social anxiety disorder and agoraphobia.