Investigates how, prior to actual communication activities or assignments, instructors can manipulate situational factors to moderate situational anxiety and avoidance. Reports that anxiety and avoidance can be moderated by manipulating context, motivation, and acquaintance factors. (MM)

Noting that communication apprehension (CA) is a pattern of anxiety that can profoundly affect oral communication, social skills, and self-esteem, this digest examines some causes and consequences of CA and ways in which it can be diminished. Following an introduction, the digest defines CA and some of its characteristics. Next, the digest looks…

Previous research on communication apprehension has revealed a reduction in student apprehension over a semester-length course in speech communication. Further research indicates, however, that, while most students do experience a reduction, a sizable percentage actually report an increase. This study sought to determine the difference between…

Examined the role of parent/home and school variables in predicting the apprehension of college students. Home and school, when taken together, accounted for significantly more of the apprehension than either one did individually, although school effects were stronger than home effects. (PD)