Oral communication apprehension and avoidance: The current status of treatment research

Current research in the treatment of oral communication apprehension and avoidance is critically reviewed. Three models are proposed to account for etiology, maintenance, and treatment. Each model's approach to treatment is then described: conditioned anxiety— systematic desensitization; negative cognitive appraisal—cognitive modification; skills deficit—skills training. Treatment research emerging from each of these theoretical models is discussed and evaluated with methodological and procedural problems delineated. Integrative conclusions are offered to the practitioner and researcher with recommendations to provide direction for future treatment research.