Feeling Socially Anxious at University: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Lee, J., Waldeck, D., Holliman, A., Banerjee, M. and Tyndall, I. (2022) Feeling Socially Anxious at University: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The Qualitative Report. ISSN 1052-0147 (In Press)

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Abstract

For those with feelings of social anxiety, university can present unique challenges. Socially anxious students can face functional impairments such as interpersonal and academic deficits, as well as social maladjustment due to a shift in their social networks. Despite this, there is surprisingly little research exploring their experiences at university using qualitative designs. The present study set out to explore how a small sample of undergraduate students experienced feeling socially anxious at university. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight psychology undergraduates and interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used to explore their experiences and interpret deeper meaning. Five main themes emerged, two of which are presented in the present study: ‘persistent self-consciousness and ‘avoiding reality’. Findings are discussed in relation to Clark and Wells’ (1995) cognitive model of social anxiety as well as existing literature. Areas requiring further exploration are discussed, as well as how universities may support socially anxious students.

Publication Type: Articles
Additional Information: Social Anxiety; Social Phobia; University; Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis; Qualitative Research Methodology.
Uncontrolled Keywords: Social Anxiety; Social Phobia; University; Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis; Qualitative Research Methodology.
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education
Divisions: Research Entities > POWER Centre
Related URLs:
Depositing User: Ian Tyndall
Date Deposited: 02 Mar 2022 09:36
Last Modified: 28 Feb 2023 01:10
URI: https://eprints.chi.ac.uk/id/eprint/6170

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