CONVERSATIONAL SKILLS INSTRUCTION FOR COMMUNICATION APPREHENSION AND AVOIDANCE

Abstract

This article describes and evaluates a conversational skills program designed for apprehensive communicators. Subjects, all women, were initially assessed on a variety of measures: questionnaires, behavioral samples, peer ratings, and self-monitoring. They were then randomly assigned to either Immediate Treatment or a Self-Monitor-Delay condition. After the Immediate Treatment group completed the program, both groups were assessed again. Comparisons revealed differences between the control and treatment group in subjects' comfort, social behavior, and impact on others. These improvements were evident in questionnaire measures, laboratory assessments, and confederate and coder ratings. Improvements in comfort, social behavior, and impact on others were replicated when Self-Monitor-Delay students were treated. Follow-up conducted 5 months after each group finished the program suggests that the effects of treatment are durable. By incorporating multiple assessments, a control group, and follow-up evaluation, this study presents a model for future research in communication apprehension treatment.