Sometimes social phobia involves a general fear of social situations such as parties. More rarely it may involve a fear of using a public rest room, eating out, talking on the phone, or writing in the presence of other people, such as when signing a check. Although this disorder is often thought of as shyness, the two are not the same. In contrast, people with social phobia aren't necessarily shy at all. They can be completely at ease with people most of the time, but particular situations, such as walking down an aisle in public or making a speech, can give them intense anxiety.
Social phobia disrupts normal life, interfering with career or social relationships.
For example, a worker can turn down a job promotion because he can't give public presentations. The dread of a social event can begin weeks in advance, and symptoms can be quite debilitating. People with social phobia aren't necessarily shy at all. They can be completely at ease with people most of the time, but in particular situations, they feel intense anxiety. People with social phobia are aware that their feelings are irrational.