Final answer:
Social anxiety disorder is best characterized by a persistent fear of being evaluated by others, which can lead to avoidance of social situations and significant distress in everyday interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Social anxiety disorder is BEST characterized by a marked and persistent fear of evaluation by others across a number of situations. This condition involves intense nervousness and self-consciousness arising from a fear of being closely watched, judged, and criticized by others. People with social anxiety disorder often avoid social situations to prevent feeling anxious or embarrassed.
Specific characteristics of social anxiety disorder include difficulty in initiating or sustaining conversations, fear of meeting new people, becoming easily embarrassed, and physical symptoms such as blushing, sweating, or shaking in social situations. It is also essential to distinguish it from other disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is characterized by different symptoms including impaired social skills, repetitive motor behaviors, adherence to rituals, and preoccupation with specific subjects. Social anxiety disorder can have a significant impact on an individual's daily life, affecting their occupational performance and social relationships.