Prevalence OfSocial Phobia Among Students At Kufa Technical Institute

Abstract

Background: Social phobia is a highly prevalent disorder in western countries, but is rather rare in eastern societies.Prevalence rates range from 0.5% in eastern studies and up to 16% in western studies. Objectives:The present study examined the prevalence of social phobia in Kufa Technical Institute students and demographic characteristics associated with this anxiety disorder.Methods: The study was conducted from November 1st, 2011 to May 1st, 2012, and included 200 undergraduate students atKufa Technical Institute. Measures included the Social Phobia Inventory and a socio-demographic questionnaire. Demographic correlates of social phobia were also examined.Statistical analysis was performed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).Results: Probable social phobia was present in 18.5% of the total sample (6.5% male and 12% female). Sex, residence, family income and marital statuscorrelated with social phobia.Conclusions: The study concluded that there arehigh prevalence of SP symptoms and its demographic correlates.Recommendation: doing large population-based study and education of the society about Social Phobia for detection of undiagnosed cases.