Social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder, is an irrational and excessive fear of social situations where embarrassment may occur, such as public speaking or eating in front of others. It has several potential causes, including genetics, neurological factors like chemical imbalances in the brain, negative past experiences, and one's environment during development. Treatment options include medical treatments like antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications, as well as psychosocial treatments including psychotherapy and behavior therapy, which aims to help patients gradually face their fears.