[Characteristic of social phobia in adolescents].

In this review, issues concerning epidemiology, etiology, diagnostic criteria and treatment of social phobia are presented. This disorder is one of the most common anxiety disorders in adolescents. The main symptom of the disorder is a fear of possible scrutiny by others in the social situation and, as a consequence, avoiding such situations. Data from recent studies suggest that lifetime prevalence rates of social phobia in adolescent are several and up to anywhere from ten to, or even over twenty per cent. There is a high comorbidity of social phobia and other psychiatric disorders in youth, it is often seen in adolescents who refuse to go to school. Social phobia is often underestimated. In case of severity of the disorder that interferes with daily functioning adequate psychotherapy is needed. The main aim of treatment of social phobia in youth is improvement of their quality of life.