Communication Apprehension

Communication apprehension is far more than the first stage fright frequently found in speech classrooms, school assemblies, and drama productions. It is a pattern of anxiety, established often in the elementary grades, which can profoundly affect much or all of a student's oral communication, social skills, and self-esteem. Preventing or alleviating communication apprehension for every student is a monumental if not impossible task. This paper examines some causes and consequences of communication apprehension and ways in which it can be diminished.

Nearly everybody loves attention. When we were little we liked it when our parents paid attention to us. If a friend asks for our advice on a pressing personal decision and listens carefully to our ideas, we feel good or important. Strangely enough somehow the lines get blurred as some become afraid when they must communicate

James McCrosky first defined communication apprehension as an “individuals level of fear or anxiety associa...