other psychotic disorders), a diagnosis of specific phobia is not warranted. 
Comorbidity
Specific phobia is rarely seen in medical-clinical settings in the absence of other psycho-
pathology and is more frequently seen in nonm edical mental health settings. Specific pho-
bia is frequently associated with a range of ot her disorders, especially depression in older
adults. Because of early onset, specific phobia is typically the temporally primary disorder.
Individuals with specific phobia are at incr eased risk for the development of other dis-
orders, including other anxiety disorders, de pressive and bipolar disorders, substance-
related disorders, somatic symptom and relate d disorders, and personality disorders (par-
ticularly dependent personality disorder).
Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)
Diagnostic Criteria 300.23 (F40.10)
A. Marked fear or anxiety about one or more social situations in which the individual is
exposed to possible scrutiny by others. Examples include social interactions (e.g., hav-
ing a conversation, meeting unfamiliar people), being observed (e.g., eating or drink-
ing), and performing in front of others (e.g., giving a speech).
Note:  In children, the anxiety must occur in peer settings and not just during interac-
tions with adults.
B. The individual fears that he or she will act in a way or show anxiety symptoms that will
be negatively evaluated (i.e., will be humiliating or embarrassing; will lead to rejection
or offend others).
C. The social situations almost always provoke fear or anxiety.
Note:  In children, the fear or anxiety may be expressed by crying, tantrums, freezing,
clinging, shrinking, or failing to speak in social situations.
D. The social situations are avoided or  endured with intense fear or anxiety.