What disorder is characterized by recurrent panic attacks and a fear of future attacks?

Panic Disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. Individuals with this disorder often develop a persistent fear of experiencing future panic attacks, which can significantly impact their daily lives and lead to avoidance behaviors. This fear of having additional panic attacks may cause them to avoid specific places or situations where they previously experienced an attack, reinforcing their anxiety.

In contrast, Generalized Anxiety Disorder involves excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, but it does not specifically center around the fear of panic attacks. Social Anxiety Disorder focuses on the fear of social situations and being negatively evaluated by others, while Specific Phobia relates to an intense fear of a particular object or situation. Each of these other disorders has distinct features that do not encompass the recurrent panic attacks and associated fears central to Panic Disorder.