Communication Apprehension Study Notes

COMMUNICATION APPREHENSION

Definition of Communication Apprehension

  • Communication apprehension is defined as a degree of anxiety about communicating in some situations.

Nature of Communication Apprehension

  • Communication apprehension (Comm App) can be both positive and negative.

Types of Communication Apprehension

Situational Communication Apprehension

  • Situational communication apprehension refers to anxiety that arises in specific contexts or scenarios, which can cause individuals to feel nervous.

  • Causes of situational communication apprehension include:

    • Communicating with individuals who are unfamiliar or different from oneself.

    • New situations that the individual has not encountered before.

    • Spotlight evaluations, where an individual feels they are being evaluated or judged by others.

    • Past challenges in communication that affect current experiences.

Chronic Communication Apprehension

  • Chronic communication apprehension is characterized by a persistent fear of communication in general, similar to other phobias such as fear of snakes or water.

Strategies to Reduce Communication Apprehension

Systematic Desensitization

  • Systematic desensitization involves taking incremental steps toward a goal, which ultimately leads to feeling more relaxed and comfortable with communication over time.

Cognitive Restructuring

  • Cognitive restructuring aims to change how individuals perceive communication by emphasizing that perfection is NOT the goal.

Positive Visualization

  • Positive visualization entails envisioning successful speaking experiences in order to build confidence and reduce anxiety.

Skills Training

  • Skills training involves teaching individuals new skills related to communication, such as:

    • Initiating conversations

    • Supporting claims effectively

    • Drawing solid conclusions

Questions and Discussion

  • What questions can I answer about communication apprehension?