Master's Theses

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

Date of Award

Fall 1974

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Psychology

Advisor

Myron Boor

Abstract

This study investigated whether instructions regarding expectancy of therapeutic gain would significantly reduce public speaking anxiety. Seven Ss who exhibited a fear of speaking before a large group of people were assigned to a group that received massed group systematic desensitization plus instructions designed to create a high expectancy of improvement. Eleven other Ss were assigned to a group that received massed group systematic desensitization without any instructions regarding the benefits that will be attained from the treatment. Groups of Ss were seen for approximately 45 minutes each day for 8 consecutive days. Self-report, independent observer, and physiological measures were used to assess the degree of public speaking anxiety. Each was required to give a pre- and post-treatment extemporaneous speech to determine whether a reduction of public speaking fear was obtained. The results indicated evidence for a small expectancy effect.

Comments

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Rights

© 1974 Robert Hemme

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