communication apprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "communication apprehension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the anxiety or fear associated with communicating in various contexts, such as public speaking or interpersonal interactions. Example: "Many students experience communication apprehension, which can hinder their ability to participate in class discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A leading scholar in the study of communication apprehension, he says forcing students to talk in public can be counterproductive.

The New York Times

According to research published in the academic journal Communication Quarterly, the average college G.P.A. of students with communication apprehension is a half-point lower than that of students without it.

The New York Times

He lets people into the class based on their scores on the Personal Report of Communication Apprehension, a widely administered test that asks students to rate their identification with statements like "Ordinarily I am very tense and nervous in conversations" or "While giving a speech, I get so nervous I forget facts I really know".

The New York Times

This study identified communication apprehension and fear of failing.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

However, it is proven that communication apprehension can happen to anyone regardless of the gender.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

This study investigated whether individuals' different personality characteristics (i.e. shyness) influence communication experiences (i.e. communication apprehension).

Computers in Human Behavior

The first construct of performance anxiety in classroom situations represents communication apprehension.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

They pointed out three performance anxieties: communication apprehension, fear of negative evaluation, and test anxiety.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

This notion suggests that Japanese students have communication apprehension or FLA in a classroom situation.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

The data suggest that shy individuals felt less of communication apprehension during the discussion conducted online than FtFC.

Computers in Human Behavior

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Scores on Self-Perceived Communication Competence Scale, Personal Report of Confidence as a Speaker, and Personal Report of Communication Apprehension-24, were compared within subjects (ie, prepost course) and between courses.

Journal of Voice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing research, clearly define "communication apprehension" using established scales like the Personal Report of Communication Apprehension (PRCA) to ensure consistent understanding.

Common error

Avoid equating shyness directly with "communication apprehension". While related, communication apprehension involves a specific fear or anxiety related to the act of communicating, whereas shyness is a broader personality trait.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "communication apprehension" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI shows that it describes a state of anxiety or fear associated with real or anticipated communication with another person or persons.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "communication apprehension" is a well-established term referring to the anxiety or fear associated with communicating. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically sound and frequently used across academic, scientific, and news contexts. While related to shyness and social anxiety, it specifically denotes anxiety related to the act of communication itself. When discussing "communication apprehension", it is important to use standardized measurement tools, like the PRCA, and avoid broad generalizations equating it simply with shyness. Understanding its nuances is crucial for effective communication research and strategies to help individuals overcome this common challenge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

apprehension about speaking

A more general term indicating worry or unease about speaking situations.

verbal communication anxiety

Specifically addresses anxiety associated with expressing oneself verbally.

speech anxiety

Focuses specifically on anxiety related to public speaking, a common manifestation of communication apprehension.

fear of public speaking

Highlights the fear associated with speaking to groups or audiences.

social communication anxiety

Highlights anxiety related to social interactions and communication within social settings.

stage fright

Implies anxiety related to performing or speaking in front of an audience.

communication reticence

Indicates a tendency to be reserved or uncommunicative due to anxiety.

shyness in communication

Emphasizes the aspect of shyness as a barrier to effective communication.

reluctance to speak

Focuses on the avoidance or hesitation to engage in verbal communication.

avoidance of verbal interaction

Emphasizes the behavioral aspect of avoiding situations requiring verbal communication.

FAQs

How is "communication apprehension" typically measured?

The Personal Report of Communication Apprehension (PRCA) is a widely used self-report instrument to measure an individual's level of "communication apprehension" across various contexts.

What are some common causes of "communication apprehension"?

Common causes include fear of negative evaluation, lack of communication skills, past negative experiences, and general social anxiety. Factors like "test anxiety" may also play a role.

What strategies can help reduce "communication apprehension"?

Strategies include practicing communication skills, cognitive restructuring to challenge negative thoughts, relaxation techniques, and exposure therapy. Courses on public speaking can also be beneficial.

Is "communication apprehension" the same as social anxiety?

While they share similarities, "communication apprehension" is more specifically focused on the fear or anxiety associated with communication situations. Social anxiety is a broader condition that involves fear and anxiety in various social situations, not just communication.