Coping with Social Anxiety

School Library Journal

Gr 6-10-Moehn states that social anxiety appears to result from a combination of biochemical, genetic, and environmental factors. Its onset is common during adolescence. She describes two main forms of the condition-generalized anxiety, which occurs in many settings, and specific anxiety, which is limited to certain tasks or events. Through case examples, she examines the effects of this condition on various aspects of life, including school, work, and relationships. The techniques she outlines for managing social anxiety include journal writing, goal setting, physical exercise, and relaxation and visualization. While optimistic about self-help, Moehn provides information on professional therapies and alerts readers to danger signs that call for immediate intervention. This well-written book is an accessible tool for investigating an often murky subject, and the calm and supportive style also makes it appropriate for self-help.-Libby K. White, Jewish Vocational Services, Baltimore, MD Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.