ABSTRACT

The present study investigates insecurities of college students as they relate to presenting or performing in public, such as emotional and physical concerns, as well as comfort with different types of materials and audience sizes. The present study explores various symptoms exhibited while presenting or performing in public and coping mechanisms used to ease associated fears and anxieties. An electronic Google Forms questionnaire was emailed to participants to fill out which included a consent form and participation qualifications ensuring participant student status and age eligibility of at least 18 years. Likert scale styled sections within the questionnaire assessed common themes of presenting and performing in public. Preliminary analysis of data demonstrated a trend toward significance between materials of song, dance, and non-first language and feelings of unease. Responses indicate heart pounding and racing to be the most bothersome symptom while presenting or performing in public. Judgment and embarrassment seem to be the most propelling factors of glossophobia in participants. The major goals of the present study were to investigate glossophobia in college students by exploring insecurities, peer pressure, and the various types of public expression associated with public speaking and presenting. The information gathered in this study will contribute additional data to understanding glossophobia by recognizing commonalities in feelings of unease associated with public speaking and presenting in an individualistic society. Additionally, this study will assist to further identify measures to alleviate connected fears and anxieties by viewing public speaking motivations and inhibitions of college students.