In terms of psychological conditions, which term describes Janel's intense fear of social situations?

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Study for the University of Central Florida (UCF) DEP2004 Developmental Psychology Final Exam. Get ready with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Excel in understanding developmental stages and theories!

The correct term that describes Janel's intense fear of social situations is social anxiety disorder. This condition is characterized by a significant fear or anxiety about social interactions or situations where one might be scrutinized by others. Individuals with social anxiety disorder often fear embarrassment, judgment, or humiliation, which can lead to avoidance of social environments.

In contrast, generalized anxiety disorder involves excessive anxiety and worry about a variety of topics, not limited to social situations, and it is more pervasive in nature. Phobic disorder refers to an irrational fear of a specific object or situation that is not limited to social contexts, such as heights or spiders. Panic disorder involves recurrent panic attacks and fears about having more attacks, which can occur in various situations but is not specifically tied to social interactions like social anxiety disorder is.

Thus, the context and specific focus on fear in social situations clearly align Janel's condition with social anxiety disorder.