Human beings are social creatures by nature.  In order to function properly as a human being, you must be able to look outside and beyond yourself.  Without theory of mind, or ability to see things from other people's perspectives, you run the risk of being a bit of an outcast.  Being ostracized produces its own barriers, including anxiety & depression.  It's a vicious cycle, as both make peace of mind quite difficult to achieve.

..... and if they laugh at you, chances are you're going to freak out at prom and light everybody on fire.