Overcoming Communication Apprehension: Identifying the Causes and Finding Solutions
Communication apprehension (CA) is the fear or anxiety experienced by individuals when communicating in different social situations, including public speaking, group discussions, and interpersonal communication. Various factors, including personality traits, past negative experiences, cultural differences, and situational factors, can cause it.
According to a study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, communication apprehension is often linked to negative self-evaluation, low self-esteem, and a tendency towards anxious behavior (McCroskey & Richmond, 1990).
Identifying the causes of CA is essential in overcoming it and developing practical communication skills. For instance, a study by Wang and Gorham (2015) found that fear of negative evaluation and low self-esteem were the most significant predictors of CA among college students.
According to a study by Zenger and Folkman (2015), 65% of senior executives report that the ability to communicate is the most critical leadership skill, highlighting the significance of effective communication in professional settings.
Other studies, such as those conducted by McCroskey and Richmond (1990), have identified personality traits such as shyness as significant factors contributing to CA. Moreover, a study by Kung and Oh (2018) found that cultural differences and language barriers contributed substantially to CA in multicultural settings.
Recognizing the underlying causes of CA is the first step in developing strategies to overcome it and improve communication skills. A communication coach can work with individuals to identify the root causes of their apprehension and develop tailored strategies to overcome it. By identifying the causes of CA and developing effective strategies to overcome it, individuals can improve their communication skills, build stronger relationships, and achieve tremendous success in their personal and professional lives.
If you would like to experience our researched based methods, contact a Speak2compete coach.