A Grounded Theory Analysis of Cognitive Mechanisms in the Experience of Social Anxiety in Interpersonal Contexts

Abstract

This study aimed to identify and analyze the cognitive mechanisms underlying the experience of social anxiety in interpersonal situations using a qualitative grounded theory approach. This qualitative study employed a grounded theory methodology. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 21 individuals experiencing social anxiety in Tehran. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The data were analyzed using NVivo software through open, axial, and selective coding. Data analysis resulted in three main categories: “Perceived Social Threat,” “Maladaptive Cognitive Processes,” and “Cognitive Coping Strategies.” These categories encompassed ten subcategories such as fear of negative evaluation, catastrophic anticipation, post-event rumination, negative self-evaluation, and mental avoidance. Participants described persistent negative self-thoughts, threat-related anticipations, and difficulties managing interpersonal interactions. Some individuals also reported using effective strategies like cognitive restructuring and attentional control. Findings indicate that social anxiety is driven by a complex interplay of negative cognitive processes, distorted mental evaluations, and ineffective coping strategies. Understanding these mechanisms can inform more culturally tailored and effective cognitive-behavioral interventions.