UGA COMM 1110 - Chapter 1: Communication Apprehension

Define ”Communication Apprehension (CA)”

An individual's level of fear or anxiety associated with real or anticipated communication with others.

Who is James McCroskey?

A communication researcher who first defined the term "communication apprehension" and studied its effects extensively.

When do most people experience communication apprehension?

in public speaking situations, but many are also apprehensive when it comes to making small talk

What activity can provide a gauge on your public speaking anxiety?

Personal Report of Public Speaking Anxiety

What are the ranges of the Personal Report of Public Speaking Anxiety and what do they mean?

1. 131+ = high level of public speaking anxiety

2. 98-131 = moderate level of anxiety

3. <98 = low level of public speaking anxiety

What are the various causes of communication apprehension?

• vulnerability

• fear of failure

• past experiences

• modeling behaviors (that we observe)

• lack of experience

• technology/social media

• genetics

Define ”Vulnerability” as a cause of communication apprehension

The feeling of being exposed or evaluated when speaking in front of an audience, contributing to communication apprehension.

Define ”Fear of Failure” as a cause of communication apprehension

Anxiety stemming from the fear of making mistakes or failing in front of an audience during a speech.

Define ”Past Experiences” as a cause of communication apprehension

Previous negative experiences with public speaking that can lead to increased apprehension in future speaking situations.

Define ”Modeling Behaviors” as a cause of communication apprehension

The tendency to adopt apprehensive communication behaviors observed in significant others, such as parents or peers.

Define ”Lack of Experience” as a cause of communication apprehension

Insufficient practice or exposure to public speaking, which can lead to feelings of apprehension.

Define ”Technology/Social Media” as a cause of communication apprehension

The preference for digital communication over face-to-face interactions, which can exacerbate communication apprehension.

Define ”Genetic Makeup” as a cause of communication apprehension

The idea that some individuals may have a predisposition to experience communication apprehension due to their genetics.

What are the methods of reducing communication apprehension?

• remembering you feel more nervous than you look

• focus on getting your message across to the audience, not on what the audience thinks of you

• think of your speech as a conversation with your audience

• prepare thoroughly

• practice, practice, practice

• start your speech with a strong attention-getter

• prepare physically

• prepare mentally and use positive self-talk

• use visual aids

• dress for success

Define “Perspective” as a method of reducing communication apprehension

Reminding oneself that the audience cannot “feel” their anxiety

Define “Message” as a method of reducing communication apprehension

Reminding oneself that the audience is paying more attention to hearing what the speaker has to say versus observations on nervousness or appearance

Define “Conversation” as a method of reducing communication apprehension

The goal of the speech is to convey information to the audience, who will then give (typically positive) feedback in the form of agreeable nods and applause at the end

Define “Preparation” as a method of reducing communication apprehension

The act of researching a topic, writing an outline, and practicing giving the speech will help the speaker feel more confident

Define “Physical Movement” as a method of reducing communication apprehension

The act of exercising, doing yoga, meditation, or similar activities to move the speaker’s body in order to help release adrenaline and be more calm

Also includes eating a good breakfast and drinking adequate amounts of water beforehand

Define ”Positive Self-Talk” as a method of reducing communication apprehension

Encouraging oneself with affirmations to build confidence and reduce anxiety before a speech.

Define ”Attention-Getter” as a method of reducing communication apprehension

A strong opening statement or question designed to capture the audience's attention at the beginning of a speech.

Define ”Visual Aids” as a method of reducing communication apprehension

Tools such as slides or props used during a presentation to enhance understanding and take some focus off the speaker.

Define ”Practice” as a method of reducing communication apprehension

The act of rehearsing a speech multiple times to improve delivery and reduce anxiety.

Define “Appearance” as a method of reducing communication apprehension

The act of “dressing for success”/dressing nicely in order to help the speaker feel more confident while giving their speech, as it helps the speaker feel more “in place”

Who is Stephen Lucas?

A professor of communication who provides tips for managing speech anxiety and improving public speaking skills.

What is the Personal Report of Public Speaking Anxiety (PRPSA)?

An assessment tool used to measure an individual's level of public speaking anxiety.

(T/F) Do people only experience communication apprehension in public speaking settings?

False - communication apprehension can be experienced in a variety of settings, such as small groups, interpersonal interactions, and public speaking

(T/F) Apprehension is caused by a number of factors, including both environmental triggers and our genetics makeup.

True

What term best describes the following situation?

“You may feel as if audience members are evaluating you and scrutinizing your every word and movement.”

vulnerability

What term best describes the following situation?

“You may have had a previous negative experience with public speaking.”

past experiences

What term best describes the following situation?

“You may have never given a speech before.”

lack of experience

What term best describes the following situation?

“You may have seen friends or family members speaking negatively about having to deliver a presentation.”

modeling behaviors

What term best describes the following situation?

“From birth you may be predisposed to be anxious about communication.”

genetics

According to Dr. Lucas, when does the adrenaline associated with speaking apprehension start to decrease?

the first 30-60 seconds of the speech