Which condition involves intense fear and avoidance of situations where escape might be difficult?

Agoraphobia is characterized by an intense fear and avoidance of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable if a panic attack or similar anxiety-related symptoms occur. Individuals with agoraphobia often fear scenarios such as being in crowded places, being outside alone, or utilizing public transportation. This condition can significantly restrict a person's daily activities and may lead to them staying at home or avoiding certain places altogether as a means of coping with their fear.

In contrast, panic disorder involves recurrent unexpected panic attacks, but it's not solely about the avoidance of specific situations. Generalized anxiety disorder presents with excessive worry about various aspects of life, not typically tied to a fear of being in situations like in agoraphobia. Specific phobias entail intense fear related to specific objects or situations, but they do not encompass the broader context of fear surrounding escape or help that defines agoraphobia. Therefore, the focus on fear and avoidance related to the difficulty of escaping specific situations distinctly identifies agoraphobia as the correct answer.