Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

What role does medication potentially play in the treatment of social anxiety disorder?

1. General mood enhancement without focus

2. Reduction of anxiety symptoms

3. Elimination of all social fears

4. Dependency for coping with stress

The correct answer is: Reduction of anxiety symptoms

Medication can play a significant role in the treatment of social anxiety disorder by helping to reduce anxiety symptoms. This approach often includes the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or other medications that target the underlying neurotransmitter imbalances associated with anxiety disorders. By alleviating the intensity of feelings such as fear and anxiety in social situations, medication can enable individuals to engage more fully in therapy or social interactions. Reduced symptoms can help improve overall functioning and quality of life, making it easier for individuals to confront situations they previously avoided. This form of treatment serves as an important component in a comprehensive treatment plan, which may also integrate therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Other options may seem plausible at first glance but do not accurately reflect the role of medication in this context. For instance, while medications may enhance mood, they do not serve merely as a mood enhancer without a targeted focus on anxiety. Similarly, medications are not intended to eliminate all social fears; instead, they target symptom reduction while acknowledging that some level of anxiety may still exist. Additionally, medications are designed to improve coping mechanisms, not to create a dependency as a primary means of handling stress. Thus, the focus remains on reducing symptoms, allowing for broader