Abstract
Objectives: Paruresis is still a widely neglected form of social phobia. Data concerning the prevalence rates as well as possible sociodemographic risk factors or correlates are still missing. Nationally representative data on point prevalence of paruresis are presented herein.
Methods: Following a random-route procedure, more than 2500 subjects in Germany were visited and asked to complete a questionnaire about paruresis based on DSM-IV as well as sociodemographic variables. Main outcome measures were the prevalence of paruresis in Germany. In additition, associations of paruresis with sociodemographic correlates were examined.
Results: The overall prevalence of paruresis is 2.6%. For women and individuals with lower education the prevalence rate is higher than for men and individuals with higher education.
Conclusion: The results of this representative study show a higher prevalence of paruresis in women than in men and an overall prevalence rate which – compared to other disorders with similar prevalence rates – calls for more intense future research efforts.
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