How might social phobia change over time?

Some people may experience the abrupt onset of social phobia after a situation that they perceive as stressful, critical, or degrading, whereas others may develop the disorder over time. Without treatment, social phobia may continue without end, whereas some people may experience a reduction in its severity or cessation of the symptoms as adults (APA, 2002). 

A person may set up their life in such a way that the full impact of social phobia is not always apparent. However, the impact may become apparent when the person’s life situation changes or if the person faces increased life demands, for example:

• A person who has a fear of public speaking may continue through much of life without many difficulties. However, a promotion at work may involve the need for presentations, thus triggering the person’s fears.
• A recently divorced person (who has avoided much social contact while married), may face again the fears of social dating (including eating and drinking in front of others), which may re-trigger previously held anxieties.