Which disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks?

Panic Disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. Individuals with Panic Disorder often experience physical symptoms, such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, and feelings of impending doom or loss of control. This disorder is differentiated from other anxiety disorders by the presence of these unexpected panic attacks, as well as the persistent worry or behavioral changes that follow them, such as avoiding places where previous attacks occurred.

In contrast, Generalized Anxiety Disorder involves chronic, excessive worry across multiple areas of life, but does not specifically center on panic attacks. Social Anxiety Disorder is focused on intense fear of social situations and being judged or embarrassed in public, rather than unexpected panic attacks. Specific Phobia is characterized by a strong fear of a specific object or situation, leading to avoidance behaviors, but again, it does not involve the recurrent and unexpected nature of panic attacks seen in Panic Disorder. Thus, the defining feature of recurrent panic attacks makes Panic Disorder the correct answer.