A symptom checklist to help clients reflect on symptoms of social anxiety and explore whether further psychological assessment may be helpful.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Social anxiety disorder is characterized by persistent fear or anxiety about social or performance situations where there is a risk of negative judgement by others. People with social anxiety often worry about being embarrassed, judged, or rejected, and may avoid situations such as public speaking, social gatherings, or being observed by others. This symptom checklist, informed by DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria, helps clients and clinicians explore whether a person’s experiences align with the diagnostic features of social anxiety. It is not intended to provide a diagnosis or assess severity, but it can support early discussions about whether further evaluation is warranted.
Social anxiety is common but frequently under-recognized. This resource:
For clients who fear being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social situations.
For individuals avoiding conversations, public speaking, or social events due to anxiety.
Gently introduce the possibility of social anxiety using the suggested therapeutic prompt.
Review the checklist collaboratively to identify common symptoms such as fear of embarrassment or avoidance.
Consider the duration and impact of symptoms on daily life and functioning.
Use the responses to guide decisions about psychoeducation, formulation, or referral.
DSM-5 criteria for social anxiety disorder include marked fear or anxiety in social situations involving possible scrutiny, with fear that one will be negatively evaluated or humiliated. The fear is typically out of proportion to the situation, persistent (lasting 6 months or more), and causes significant distress or functional impairment. Social situations are either avoided or endured with intense fear.
ICD-11 criteria similarly describe marked and excessive fear in social situations, including concern about behaving in a way that will be negatively judged. Functional impairment may be present or avoided only with great effort.
This symptom checklist is informed by both DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria. It is not intended to provide a formal diagnosis or assess severity but may support early recognition and therapeutic exploration. Clinicians can use it to validate a client’s experiences and facilitate conversations that may lead to further assessment.
