Research investigating public speaking anxiety treatments is subject to demand effects. This study tests the relative effectiveness of systematic desensitization (SD) and multiple treatment method (MT) containing visualization therapy against no-treatment and credible placebo controls. Data (N = 238) were collected at six points in a public…

Compares the effectiveness of systematic desensitization (SD), rational emotive therapy (RET), and visualization (VIS) in reducing communication apprehension (CA). Concludes that, while all treatment modes reduce CA, no significant differences were found in their effectiveness. Emphasizes that VIS is a relatively simple technique that can be used…

Describes systematic desensitization as a form of behavior therapy for reducing anxiety. Examines its rationale and clinical practice and explores two features of the technique (relaxation and anxiety hierarchy) as they may be applied to classroom speech instruction for reticent students. (JMF)

Presents two viewpoints for helping students with severe communication anxiety and avoidance problems: one based on traditional speech pedagogy; the other based on behavioral clinical psychology. Argues that in most cases the two viewpoints complement rather than contradict each other. (JMF)

Examines models and treatment approaches for communication apprehension: (1) conditioned anxiety--systematic desensitization; (2) negative cognitive appraisal--cognitive modification; and (3) skills deficit--skills training. Provides direction for future treatment research. (PD)

Describes a Rationale-Emotive-Therapy (RET) approach as a classroom method for reducing students' communication apprehension. Compares RET with two other classroom methods (desensitization and communication skills training) and concludes that all three methods work equally well. (PD)