What is a characteristic feature of discrete social phobia?

A characteristic feature of discrete social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder, is the specific fear or anxiety related to particular social situations, with public speaking being one of the most common triggers. Individuals with this type of phobia typically experience intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in situations where they are expected to perform or speak in front of others. This focus on a specific activity sets this condition apart from generalized social anxiety, where individuals may fear a wider range of social situations.

The emphasis on public speaking reflects the anxieties surrounding the potential for negative evaluation and the fear of not meeting perceived social norms, which is central to the experience of social phobia. Other types of anxieties, such as fear of being alone in public places or avoidance of close family, do not align with the specific nature of discrete social phobia, as they pertain more to generalized anxiety or other specific phobias, rather than a narrow focus on social performance situations.