Communication Apprehension

Paper Summary:

This paper researches the phenomenon of what is known as communication apprehension or anxiety. Communicative apprehension is defined as "an individual's level of fear or anxiety associated with either real or anticipated communication with another person or persons". This paper takes an in-depth look at this issue.

Outline:
I. Introduction
Personal Report of Communication Apprehension (PRCA)
Communication Apprehension
The difference between state CA and trait CA
II. Body
Culture
Gender
III. Future directions
IV. Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Based on the earlier description of self and other perceptions, as well as actual behavioral results, one can surmise that generally, high CA can be a detriment to those experiencing it in an organizational context. Using this information as a base, one may also posit that experiencing high RA in the organizational environment will elicit similar outcomes. Some researchers have suggested that because of the information that has been found regarding apprehension in organizations, it would be unlikely to find highly apprehensive individuals in advanced positions within a company. Although it has been discovered that high CA people were less likely to desire advancement, and less likely to perceive themselves as likely to advance within the organization, there are no empirical data that indicate these feelings and beliefs are consistent with actual outcomes.
Culture
The first valencing factor consists of social and cultural norms. If cultural norms dictate greater spatial boundaries, less touch, and so forth, then individuals from these cultures are likely to valence such norm violations negatively. Parents even articulate immediacy norms with verbal commands (e.g., don't stare, don't push) so that learning of these norms is facilitated. "

More papers on Communication Apprehension:

• Research Proposal # 148999 : "Communication Apprehension in the Workplace"
• Research Proposal # 105936 : "Communication Apprehension in Small Group Settings"
• Research Paper # 106754 : "Lessening Apprehension In Communication"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: