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

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging the client to face their fear gradually is a cornerstone of exposure therapy, a proven psychological approach for treating phobias. Gradual exposure helps the client confront their fears in a controlled manner, allowing them to build tolerance and reduce anxiety over time.

Choice B rationale:

Administering benzodiazepines as needed for acute anxiety (choice B) is not the first-line intervention for treating phobias. While benzodiazepines can provide rapid relief from acute anxiety, they do not address the underlying phobia and can lead to dependence if used excessively.

Choice C rationale:

Providing psychoeducation about the causes and effects of phobias is valuable, but it alone might not be as effective as exposure therapy or other evidence-based treatments. Educating the client about the nature of phobias can complement their treatment plan.

Choice D rationale:

Teaching the client relaxation techniques to manage anxiety is beneficial but might not be as effective as exposure therapy for addressing phobias directly. Relaxation techniques can be useful in managing general anxiety, but specific phobias are best treated with exposure-based interventions.

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.