Diagonally-Parked in a Parallel Universe: Working Through Social Anxiety

Over 20 million people in the U.S .alone feel intensely anxious in social situations – from work to intimacy. The results of their agonizing pangs of self-consciousness and fear of negative evaluation are interrupted education, reduced productivity, financial dependency, and lack of satisfying relationships.

"Diagonally-Parked in a Parallel Universe..." is designed to meet the fundamental needs of social phobics. Written with humor by a social psychologist and ex-social phobic, this book is based on years of interviews with sufferers and on the work of the pre-eminent clinical researchers in the field (such as Drs. Richard Heimberg, Stefan Hofmann, Ronald Rapee, Debra Hope, Samuel Turner, and Suzanne Sutherland).

It provides exercises, assignments, and the systematic and clinically-proven methods for successfully coping with all forms and degrees of social anxiety, including fear of making small talk, the inability to stand up for yourself or make decisions, sweating and blushing.

It is the insider’s scoop and life-strategy approach to social phobics alleviating their pain, achieving their goals, and effectively working toward their potential. Unlike other books on alleviating social anxiety, "Diagonally Parked..." also helps fill in the social effectiveness gaps that social phobics miss out on due to their fear of negative evaluation and socializing and does so with laser-targeted strategies, tactics, tips, and examples.

Readers find out about:
* Current research and theories of social fears’ origins
* Deciding on and planning recovery
* Reducing fear arousal
* Changing maladaptive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
* Exploring medications and alternative treatments
* Finding a therapist and what to expect in therapy
* Meeting people and making small talk
* Dating and intimacy
* Sharpening personal effectiveness
* Networking and self-promotion
* Benefits of having pets
* Speaking in public …and much more.

“Remarkable job researching the current literature on social anxiety. Text is well-written and comprehensive and I enjoyed the use of humor.” – Stephan G. Hofmann, Ph.D.,Director, Social Phobia program, Boston University

“Excellent job covering social anxiety … The book will be valuable to both therapists and self-help readers.” – Albert Ellis, Ph.D., President, Albert Ellis Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy

“Combines the best of both worlds – the knowledge and expertise of the professional and the insight and understanding of the consumer – and communicates these strengths to the reader. As an ex-social phobic, Dr. Dayhoff’s empathy and her understanding of the struggles of the person with social anxiety shine through in every chapter. Warmth andexpert knowledge. This is a winning recipe.” - Ronald M. Rapee, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology, Macquarie University, and author of "Overcoming Shyness and Social phobia: A Step By Step Guide."