Social phobia is one of phobias which is the least studied. Clinical
   characteristics of the disorder include, phobic avoidance of social situations
   somatic and cognitive symptoms of anxiety and impairment in functioning.
   No comprehensive research in Iran is available. The aim was study
   on prevalence of social phobia and some related factors among high
   school students in Kerman in 1998. 

          In this cross – sectional study 2944 students were evaluated by DSM IV
   criteria for social phobia via semi structured interview.

          14.6% fulfilled criteria for social phobia, female to male ratio was 1.8.
   There was meaningful statistical relationship between history of shyness
   during childhood and physical abuse with social phobia.

          Prevalence of this disorder was higher than same western researches.  
   Complementary researches is recommended.