Why Do People Get Nervous Around New People?

Imagine you're at a party and someone walks up to talk to you. Your brain thinks, 'Is this person going to like me?' It feels nervous because it's trying to figure out if the new person is friendly or not. This feeling happens when your brain sends messages through your body that make you feel like you're in a small room with just two people, no one else can help you out.

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Examples

You're at a birthday party and someone you don't know asks if you want to play a game. Your heart starts beating faster.
Your teacher calls on you in class, and all your classmates are watching you. You suddenly feel like you can't think of the answer.
You're trying to make a new friend at camp, but your hands start sweating as you introduce yourself.

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Categories: Psychology · social anxiety· neuroscience· human behavior· mental health