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

Choice A rationale:

This statement accurately captures the key features of phobias. Phobias involve intense, irrational fear reactions to specific objects or situations that persist over time. The fear is often excessive in relation to the actual threat posed by the phobic stimulus.

Choice B rationale:

The statement "Phobias can be caused by biological factors only" (choice B) is not accurate. While biological factors like genetics and brain chemistry can contribute to the development of phobias, they are not the sole cause. Psychological and environmental factors also play significant roles.

Choice C rationale:

The statement "Phobias can be diagnosed based on physical symptoms" (choice C) is incorrect. Phobias are diagnosed based on psychological symptoms, such as intense fear, avoidance behavior, and distress. Physical symptoms may accompany the fear response but are not the primary diagnostic criteria.

Choice D rationale:

The statement "Phobias can be managed with medication alone" (choice D) is not entirely accurate. While medication can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety associated with phobias, the most effective treatments often involve psychotherapy, particularly exposure therapy, to address the underlying fear response and promote lasting change.

Choice B rationale:

The client's intense fear of embarrassing themselves in front of others and the specific fear related to giving a presentation are indicative of social phobia (social anxiety disorder) Social phobia involves an excessive fear of social situations where the individual fears negative evaluation or judgment by others, leading to avoidance of such situations.

Choice A rationale:

While the client's fear is related to public speaking, the emphasis is on the fear of embarrassment and negative evaluation rather than a fear of a specific object or situation, which aligns more with social phobia.

Choice C rationale:

Agoraphobia does not align with the client's fear of public speaking. Agoraphobia involves the fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help might not be available if a panic attack occurs, often leading to avoidance of various places or situations.

Choice D rationale:

Panic disorder involves recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are not explicitly mentioned in the client's statement. The focus of the client's fear is on the social aspect of giving a presentation rather than on panic attacks.