A nurse is conducting a group therapy session for individuals with phobias. Which of the following statements accurately describes social phobia?

Choice C rationale:

Collaborating with the client to set realistic and achievable goals for overcoming phobias (Choice C) is an example of a nursing intervention for phobias. This empowers the client to actively participate in their treatment, fostering a sense of control and motivation to confront their fears.

Choice A rationale:

Providing a safe and supportive environment for the client (Choice A) is important, but it is a more general intervention that doesn't specifically address the process of overcoming phobias.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging the client to avoid situations that trigger phobic responses (Choice B) is counterproductive, as mentioned earlier. It reinforces avoidance behaviors rather than helping the client confront their fears.

Choice D rationale:

Referring the client to other health care professionals as needed (Choice D) is a potential step in the treatment process, but it doesn't exemplify a direct nursing intervention for phobias. It's more about coordinating care if specialized help is required.

Choice A rationale:

This choice inaccurately describes specific phobias, not social phobia. Specific phobias are centered around specific triggers, while social phobia involves a fear of being negatively evaluated in social or performance situations.

Choice B rationale:

Social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder, is indeed characterized by a fear of being judged, criticized, or embarrassed in social or performance situations. This fear often leads individuals to avoid social interactions or endure them with significant distress.

Choice C rationale:

This choice relates to agoraphobia, not social phobia. Agoraphobia involves the fear of being in situations from which escape might be difficult or embarrassing, such as crowded places or public transportation.

Choice D rationale:

This choice inaccurately characterizes specific phobias, not social phobia. Specific phobias are focused on particular triggers and are not related to a fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that poses little or no actual danger.