Shyness is a temperamental tendency to feel uncomfortable, inhibited, or tense in the presence of others, especially with strangers. Unlike social anxiety disorder, it does not necessarily involve significant avoidance or functional impairment. Many shy people function well socially, albeit with internal discomfort.
Concept origin
Zimbardo PG. (1977). Shyness: What it is, what to do about it. Addison-Wesley. · Henderson L, Zimbardo P. (1998). Shyness as a clinical condition. Harvard Mental Health Letter, 14(8), 4-7.
How it manifests
- ▸ Discomfort in the presence of strangers
- ▸ Hesitant speech or difficulty maintaining eye contact
- ▸ Preference for solitary activities or small groups
Therapeutic approach
Shyness does not require clinical treatment, but it can benefit from social skills training and gradual exposure. The key distinction from social anxiety disorder is the presence of significant avoidance and functional impairment.
Related concepts
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