Sometimes you would rather just stay in and rent a movie. Getting all dressed up for the evening takes a lot of effort, not to mention the money involved in going out. When people are going to be there that you don't know, it can make the thought of going out that much less appealing.

Meeting new people can be great for some kids and torture for others, especially those who are shy or experience social anxiety.

"I can't go out. I have nothing to wear. Plus, I have no money and I have to be up early tomorrow," explained Megan.

"Nope. Sorry, you promised me like a month ago. Plus there are cute boys meeting us," Sarah replied. "You always do this to me and it is getting really annoying. Now put something on and let's go," Sarah snapped.

"I'm sorry. I just can't go. I am ugly and nobody will like me. Plus, I really have, like no money."

"No excuses. Get dressed. I don't care that you feel nervous before we go out. Once we are there, you always have fun." Sarah was not taking no for an answer.

But the truth was that Megan was not fine when she went out. Sure she could put on a smile and take part in a conversation, but inside she was a mess. She worried that she wouldn't say the right thing or that everyone she came in contact with was judging her. Megan often tried to avoid interacting with new people by walking with her head down, not making eye contact, or staying away from social situations all together.

"I am sorry. I hate going to places where I am not going to know anybody. When we leave you always tell me that I have to speak up because nobody can ever hear me. I do that because I am so nervous and hate it!" Megan was getting upset now. This was something that had been a problem for a long time. She would worry so much before going out that she could never enjoy herself.

Megan was just born shy and was not making any effort to combat the anxiety. She just accepted her shy personality instead of seeking help in learning to improve her social skills.