Agoraphobia is a much more debilitating type of anxiety disorder than social phobia. Agoraphobia is a term formed from Greek and Latin words that literally mean “feat of the marketplace”, but the disorder typically involves multiple, intense fears, such as the fear of being alone, of being in public places from which escape might be difficult, of being in crowds, of travelling in an automobile, or of going through tunnels or over bridges. The common element in all these situations seems to be a great dread of being separated from sources of security, such as the home or a loved one with whom the person feels safe.

Agoraphobia can greatly interfere with life functioning: Some people are so fearful that they will venture only a few miles from home, while others will not leave their homes at all. Although agoraphobia is less common than specific or social phobia (it affects about 3 percent of the population), because of the severity of its effects, it is more likely to cause the person to seek treatment. Interestingly, women are far more likely than men to suffer from agoraphobia. One possible explanation: Traditionally it has been more acceptable for a woman to be housebound. It is also possible that women more readily admit to the problem.

Reference:

1. Understanding Psychology: 3^rd Edition. Charles G. Morris.