Silence Of The Lambs

He stands back, avoiding holding eye contact or speaking up. His heart beats rapidly, and he is aware of perspiration, and butterflies in the stomach. If you sometimes experience these symptoms in social or business situations you have a lot of company.

Now imagine, vividly, a new book in your hands that answers these questions.

Social psychologists disclose "excessive shyness" is a growing social epidemic. In fact, it is now the third most prevalent psychiatric disorder.

Shy people obviously have trouble meeting people, forming relationships, and participating in life. They are often lonely and frustrated.

Shy people have greater health problems because they tend to have a weak network of friends. They are less likely to give doctors sufficient information to treat them properly.

They are less likely to make money, to live up their potential at work, or to feel appreciated for their contributions.

Metaphorically, shyness is a shrinking back from life that weakens the bonds of human connection.

Professor Emeritus Thomas Harrell, of Stanford University, examined MBAs over a 20 -year period - continued below ...