Psychology In Seattle Podcast Social Anxiety (2016 Rerun)
Dec 26, 2025
Explore the complexities of social anxiety, from personal anecdotes to relatable struggles in unscripted social settings. Discover how childhood trauma can shape our responses and lead to feelings of panic. The hosts discuss effective strategies like gradual exposure therapy and the importance of pacing to foster comfort. They emphasize the role of specialized therapists in navigating these challenges. This insightful conversation offers both understanding and practical guidance for anyone grappling with social anxiety.
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Extroversion Varies With Mood And Context
- Humberto shares that he fluctuates between extroversion and wanting solitude depending on mood and context.
- He sometimes has to 'force' extroversion and other times effortlessly engages with groups.
Newcomer Silence Often Reflects Group Dynamics
- Being the 'new person' in a group often yields colder responses that improve once familiarity develops.
- Kirk notes a group's vibe shifts over time, so initial silence doesn't always reflect personal failure.
Childhood Social Trauma Shapes Adult Panic
- Social anxiety can stem from repeated childhood social trauma that creates automatic panic responses in adulthood.
- Those trauma-triggered pathways can blank the mind and are not fixed by simple reassurance.