OVERVIEW

Michael T. Motley, a professor and department chair of rhetoric and communication at the University of California, maintains a private practice as a communication consultant. He cites the following facts:

• About 85% of people feel anxious about speaking in public or suffer "speech anxiety."
• There are physical symptoms of "speech anxiety": sweaty palms, a dry mouth, an increased heart rate, shaky hands, weak knees, shortness of breath, "butterflies" in the stomach, an increase in blood pressure, and increased muscle tension.
• While some are encouraged by these symptoms, it scares and deters most people from getting up to make a public speech.
• In extreme cases, some people suffer irrational fears about public speaking.
• It is shown that an audience does not generally critique a speech nor attune to a speaker’s nervousness.

HELP FOR THOSE WHO SUFFER EXTREME ANXIETY PRECEDING A SPEECH

• One method of treatment is systematic desensitization. It aims to lessen physiological arousal, and it involves controlling muscle tension and treatment using visual imagery.
• Another approach is Rational Emotive Therapy (RET). This strives to reduce irrational thoughts contributing to anxiety.

TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR A SPEECH

• View the speech as communication rather than performance. Think of it as a normal conversation.
• Plan how you can best express your major points.
• Imagine yourself in the audience. Speak to them on their terms, in language they can understand.
• Think of yourself as speaking to one person at a time so that it feels more natural.
• Try not to think about your hand movements and facial expressions.
• Take it slow and easy.
• Speak the way you would normally talk.
• Ask for advice and criticism.

IMPLICATIONS

• Public speaking is a very real part of working with youth. Youth workers should feel comfortable in front of young audiences. It is important to accept speaking engagements in order to model public speaking to others.
• Kids are encouraged to speak in front of class and club audiences. Youth workers can help them prepare for such situations.
• It is good to practice some techniques for calming down before a speaking engagement.
• Practice with small groups and friends. Practice with kids. They are the best audience for letting you know where you stand.
• Realize that when you are asked to speak, it is a form of encouragement and a sign of respect. Use that encouragement when preparing to speak.

Sarah Alderman and Anne Montague cCYS