What distinguishes 'generalized anxiety disorder' from 'social anxiety disorder' in terms of the primary source of anxiety?

The key distinction between generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety disorder (SAD) lies in the primary source of anxiety. In generalized anxiety disorder, the anxiety is pervasive and not tied to specific situations or objects. Individuals with GAD experience excessive worry about a variety of everyday concerns, such as finances, health, work, or family. The anxiety is often difficult to control and is accompanied by physical symptoms like restlessness, fatigue, muscle tension, irritability, and sleep disturbances. The source of anxiety is diffuse and can shift from one concern to another. In contrast, social anxiety disorder is characterized by intense fear and anxiety related to social situations where the individual may be scrutinized or judged by others. The primary source of anxiety is the fear of negative evaluation, embarrassment, humiliation, or rejection in social settings. Individuals with SAD may avoid social situations altogether or endure them with significant distress. Common social situations that trigger anxiety include public speaking, meeting new people, eating or drinking in public, and attending social gatherings. While individuals with SAD may also experience anxiety about other areas of their lives, the core fear revolves around social performance and interactions. Therefore, GAD is characterized by generalized, free-floating anxiety, while SAD is characterized by anxiety specifically related to social situations and fear of negative evaluation.