Emotions of embarrassment and shame are the main element of this facet. The name is misleading, as a high score on this aspect, which is the first aspect of neuroticism, does not translate to a shy attitude in a group. It only indicates a higher sensitivity to discomfort and shame in a group of individuals.
Individuals with high scores in Social Shyness are more likely to feel uncomfortable in social situations. They are sensitive to ridicule, may experience feelings of inferiority, and tend to feel social anxiety in public (but not in private). This social shyness equates to a predisposition to feel anxiety in group settings, but not necessarily to be shy.
People with a low score in social shyness almost never suffer from anticipatory anxiety. They can manage new, uncertain, unexpected, threatening, or complex situations very well. They are much less likely to avoid or withdraw from the unknown or the unexpected. Individuals with a very low level of social shyness rarely feel sad, lonely, disappointed, or distressed – and if they do, they don't feel these emotions deeply or for long. Their life tends to be free from doubt, worry, discomfort, self-consciousness, and discouragement, even when facing real threats and punishment. They resist social rejection and rarely worry about it, and almost never feel hurt or threatened. Even when they are genuinely hurt, scared, or anxious, they recover easily and quickly. People with a low level of social shyness simply don't worry. Technically, the level of social shyness has been linked to the activity of brain systems that regulate passive avoidance.
A person with High Social Shyness might feel strong discomfort and fear of being judged when speaking in public, which may prevent them from speaking in group settings.
A person with Low Social Shyness is able to speak freely in public, even during important presentations and in front of a large audience, without experiencing significant social anxiety.
A person with High Social Shyness may struggle to feel comfortable in social encounters or to make friends because they fear being embarrassed or judged.
A person with Low Social Shyness is more likely to approach new people and participate in social activities without fearing ridicule or negative judgment.
People who are politically liberal have a slightly higher level of social shyness than conservatives. Women have a higher level of social shyness than men. The average percentile for women in the general population (women and men) is 60. For men, it is 40.