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Public-speaking fears in a community sample. Prevalence, impact on functioning, and diagnostic classification
M B Stein1, J R Walker, D R Forde
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg.
Archives of General Psychiatry
|February 1, 1996
Summary
Severe public speaking fears are common and can be a form of social phobia. These anxieties significantly impact individuals' lives, affecting work, social interactions, and education.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Social phobia prevalence is higher than previously thought.
- The relationship between public speaking fears and social phobia in the general population remains unclear.
- Understanding the functional impact of public speaking anxiety is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of public speaking fears in a community sample.
- To explore the association between public speaking fears and social phobia.
- To assess the functional morbidity associated with public speaking anxiety.
Main Methods:
- A randomized telephone survey was conducted.
- The study included 499 residents of Winnipeg, Manitoba.
- Data on public speaking fears, social phobia, and functional impact were collected.
Main Results:
- One-third of respondents reported excessive anxiety during public speaking.
- Common anxious cognitions included fear of embarrassment, mind going blank, and visible anxiety signs.
- Ten percent of respondents experienced marked interference in work, social life, or education due to public speaking anxiety.
Conclusions:
- Severe public speaking fears should be considered within the social phobia construct.
- Public speaking anxiety can significantly impair an individual's quality of life.
- These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions for public speaking anxiety.