Conceptualizing speech anxiety as a dynamic trait

Abstract

In the present research, the concept of focused, narrow‐band measurement of anxiety traits in speech communication is advanced and empirical evidence for its validity and utility is presented. The results show that narrow‐band speech anxiety trait scores are better predictors of state anxiety during public speaking than are the more conventional medium‐band or wide‐band configurations. Moreover, dynamic trait anxiety, the patterning of narrow‐band trait anxiety scores over the four conventional periods of public speaking, shows a monotonically decreasing function with significant differences among all means. It was discovered that speech anxiety trait scores increase as the focus of measurement is narrowed, indicating greater sensitivity in detecting the most potent elements of the trait anxiety pattern. Implications for pedagogical and therapeutic intervention are discussed.