Final answer:
Behavioral inhibition is a significant risk factor for social anxiety disorder, characterized by shyness and fearfulness in new situations.
Step-by-step explanation:
A major risk factor for developing social anxiety disorder is behavioral inhibition. Behavioral inhibition refers to a temperament observed in children who are consistently shy, fearful, and cautious in new situations.
Extensive research, such as that by Clauss and Blackford (2012), supports the link between behavioral inhibition and an increased risk of social anxiety disorder. While other factors like having a specific phobia, biological predisposition, and exhibiting stress may also contribute to the development of anxiety disorders, behavioral inhibition remains a key predictive factor.