Prevalence of social phobia among students at Kufa Technical Institute

Abstract EN

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 status correlated 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.