Biological factors: Research suggests that genetics and neurological differences, such as overactivity in certain parts of the brain, play a role in the development of anxiety disorders.Learned behavior: Early childhood experiences and environmental factors, such as having overprotective parents, may cause someone to develop certain patterns of anxious thinking. Anxious parents may also model their behavior to their children, who pick up on their habits.Negative thinking: Many people with anxiety disorders and other mental health conditions have fallen into patterns of repetitive negative thinking about themselves, others, and the world around them. Personality traits: People with certain personality traits, such as introversion (focusing on their inner life rather than external interactions) and perfectionism, are more likely to experience anxiety., While stress and anxiety are very similar, they have a few key differences. Learn how each one shows up and how to manage symptoms., There’s a fine line between stress and anxiety. Both are emotional responses, but stress is typically caused by an external trigger..