Siavash Talepasand1, Mostafa Nokani. 1. Department of Educational Sciences and Development of Handicapped Children, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran. stalepasand@semnan.ac.ir
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. The present study examined the prevalence of social phobia in the Iranian general population and demographic characteristics associated with this anxiety disorder. METHODS: Participants included 701 subjects from Golestan Province. Measures included the Social Phobia Inventory and a socio-demographic questionnaire. Demographic correlates of social phobia were also examined. RESULTS: Probable social phobia was present in 10.1% of the total sample (8.6% male and 11.6% female). Sex, social support, residence, education, and job correlated with social phobia. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings corroborate those from other studies in western countries, both regarding the high prevalence of SP symptoms and its demographic correlates.
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. The present study examined the prevalence of social phobia in the Iranian general population and demographic characteristics associated with this anxiety disorder. METHODS:Participants included 701 subjects from Golestan Province. Measures included the Social Phobia Inventory and a socio-demographic questionnaire. Demographic correlates of social phobia were also examined. RESULTS: Probable social phobia was present in 10.1% of the total sample (8.6% male and 11.6% female). Sex, social support, residence, education, and job correlated with social phobia. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings corroborate those from other studies in western countries, both regarding the high prevalence of SP symptoms and its demographic correlates.
Authors: Imran Jahangirali Ratnani; Ashok Ukabhai Vala; Bharat Navinchandra Panchal; Deepak Sachchidanand Tiwari; Smruti S Karambelkar; Milankumar G Sojitra; Nidhi N Nagori Journal: J Family Med Prim Care Date: 2017 Apr-Jun