An examination of the effect of basic speech courses, self‐concept, and self‐disclosure on communication apprehension

Abstract

This study examined the impact of three basic communication courses on communication apprehension, self‐concept, and self‐disclosure. Results indicated that simply completing any of the three courses significantly reduced high communication apprehension. Negative correlations were obtained between communication apprehension and two types of self‐disclosure, while positive correlations were obtained for the discrepancy between ideal self‐concept and self‐concept as a communicator and communication apprehension. The findings are discussed with regard to their impact on reducing communication apprehension in the classroom.