This article discusses the symptoms, causes, treatment, and healthy ways to cope with glossophobia.
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What Is Glossophobia?
“Glossophobia” is the official term used to define a fear of public speaking.
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It may sometimes also be referred to as public speaking anxiety.
Symptoms of glossophobia typically include:
Those with glossophobia may have other symptoms of social phobia, as well.
These may occur before, during, or after a social situation.
As with many phobias, glossophobia may also cause a variety of physical symptoms.
Biological Factors
Glossophobia may be due in part to genetics.
Genetics can determine how the brain regulates feelings of anxiety, stress, nervousness, and shyness.
Some people may be born naturally shy, and find social situations difficult to navigate.
Most people who have a social phobia have had a shy temperament their whole life.
Learned Behavior
A fear of public speaking can develop after learning the fear from a role model.
This can result in a social phobia like glossophobia later in life.
If someone has been criticized or feels humiliated, they may develop a social phobia.
Overcoming a Fear of Public Speaking
Dealing with a fear of public speaking isn’t easy.
Psychological interventions like therapy are known to be effective in the treatment of fear of public speaking.
However, a healthcare provider may prescribe medication for people experiencing significant symptoms of anxiety.
Using coping techniques and treatment involving psychotherapy can help people overcome the fear of public speaking.
Published 2019 Mar 15.
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