Social anxiety disorder (social phobia) can be described as an extreme and persistent fear of being scrutinized or judged by others in social situations. This fear can lead to feelings of embarrassment, humiliation and embarrassment. People who suffer from this condition may “feel helpless over their anxiety” (ADAA). These emotions often interfere with daily activities, such as school, work, and personal relationships. The person may begin to withdraw socially or avoid situations in which they are afraid. Millions of Americans experience this devastating condition every day of their lives. There are several causes, symptoms and treatments. Statistics show a significant increase in the number of people diagnosed with social anxiety disorder in the United States. As a 2012 article by webmd.com points out, "Social anxiety disorder is the most common anxiety disorder and the third most common mental disorder in the United States, after depression and alcohol dependence." ". Specific data included in the same article indicates that “approximately 19.2 million Americans suffer from social anxiety. The disorder most often appears in adolescence or early adulthood, but can occur at any time, including early childhood. Additionally, the article states that social anxiety disorder “…is more common in women than men.” According to a 2011 Mayo Clinic staff article, he supports research studies that believe one possible cause is genetics. These studies explain that there are no definitive causes of social anxiety disorder, but that anxiety disorders "tend to be hereditary." These data lead researchers to conclude that this disorder could be “hereditary”. Another belief is that this disorder could be linked to an imbalance of a...... middle of paper ......ess: how to overcome social anxieties. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1993. Print.Richards, Ph.D, Thomas A.. “What is social anxiety?.” » Social Anxiety Institute. Np, and Web. November 8, 2013. Smith, Melinda and Ellen Jaffe-Gill. “Social Anxiety Disorder and Social Phobia.” Social anxiety disorder and social phobia: symptoms, self-help and treatment. Np, and Web. November 8, 2013. “Social Anxiety Disorder | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA. » Social Anxiety Disorder | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA. Np, and Web. November 6, 2013. “Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder). » NIMH RSS. Np, and Web. November 6, 2013. Stein, Murray B. “Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder) – The Dana Guide.” - Dana Foundation. Np, and Web. November 9, 2013. “What is social anxiety disorder?” Symptoms, treatments and more. » WebMD. WebMD and Web. November 8. 2013.