POPULAR MAGAZINE ARTICLE CRITIQUE Steve Eftink 8 Mar 01 “Social Anxiety Disorder/Social Phobia: The Least Understood Anxiety Disorder” Richards, Ph.D., PsychologistPURPOSE: In my opinion the author of this article has expressed two reasons for writing the article. First, he explains the symptoms and diagnoses of social anxiety disorder and how it relates to humans. Secondly, he illustrates some of the possible treatments or ways to live with what he titles “The Least Understood Anxiety Disorder.” SUMMARY: Social anxiety disorder or Social phobia, as called by some, is labeled by Richards as the fear of public interaction with other people for feelings of criticism or self-consciousness? He further hypotheses that millions of people all over world suffer from this disorder. He sites such situations as; being made the center of attentions, meeting people in the position of authority or making “small talk” at parties as events that could trigger an anxiety disorder episode. Some of the symptoms of a person experiencing a social anxiety disorder range from elevated heart rates, turning red in the face to intense fear coupled with muscle twitches. These symptoms, and others, persist in individuals diagnosed as having social anxiety disorder and show no signs subsiding. In a positive light the author shows how cognitive-behavioral therapy has significantly helped people with this disorder. The writer illustrates four elements vital in conquering social phobias. The first is understanding and being aware of the problem. Followed by a commitment to carry through with the therapy and getting the information deep in the brain so as to make the response automatic. Lastly, participation in a social anxiety therapy group that establishes specific strategic goals the person can gradually work towards is imperative. The group should be made up o...
