International Encyclopedia of Communication Online

Extract

Communication anxiety/avoidance is one of the most studied phenomena in the field of communication. Communication apprehension (CA) is defined as “the fear or anxiety associated with real or anticipated communication with others” ( McCroskey 1984 ; →  Communication Apprehension ). CA is problematic when anxiety reaches levels that interfere with goal attainment (→  Goals, Social Aspects of ). Inherently social, communication apprehension is emotionally based, although CA does involve attitudinal and behavioral components (→  emotion ; Attitudes ). Other anxiety-related constructs (e.g., reticence, willingness, shyness) are more belief-based and attitudinal, and all incorporate elements of avoidant behavior. Because responding can be via thinking, feeling, and behaving, these anxiety/avoidance constructs are related, but not isomorphic. Fear of negative evaluation permeates self-perceptions, external orientations, and behaviors. Such emotional responses are not necessarily aversive. Low levels of anxiety may be perceived as anticipatory arousal or excitement, and not negatively experienced (→  Excitation and Arousal ). But as anxiety increases it becomes more aversive and debilitating, interfering with social interaction demands. In societies that place priority on active communication and talk, social anxiety can be painful and inhibiting. Communication-based anxiety/apprehension ... log in or subscribe to read full text