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International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Issue 3, Vol 1, February. 2013

Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 5738

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A CORRELATION STUDY TO ANALYZE THE

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GLOSSOPHOBIA AND

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN UNDERGRADUATE

COLLEGIATE STUDENTS

Arun.B*, Dr.M.S.Nagarajan**, Mohamed Auriff, *** Senthil Velkumar.T****

*Senior Physiotherapist, K.G. College of Physiotherapy, K.G. Hospital, KG ISL campus,

Sarvanampatti, Coimbatore. India, 9994576111,

**Manger of Sports, Special Olympics Asia pacific. Aquatic complex, Velachery main road,

Guindy, Chennai, India. 9884098884.

*** Physical therapist, Kare partners and complete rehab incorporation, USA,

**** Post Graduate Student, K.G. College of physiotherapy, KG ISL campus, Sarvanampatti,

Coimbatore, India. 9994767824.

______________________________________________________________________________

ABSTRACT

Glossophobia or public speaking anxiety is about 75 % of world population and it is one

of the most prevalent world fears. There are lot of evidences relate to variety of health benefits

following physical activity predominantly focuses on intra-personal factors such as

physiological, cognitive and affective benefits. This study aims to find out the relationship

between activity level and speech anxiety level of the students. Study design is a correlative

design. Study includes 100 participants from K.G.College of Health sciences. All the subjects

were selected using simple random sampling method. Customized Physical activity

questionnaire was distributed to the participants to measure the physical activity carried by an

individual. Followed by Personal report of public speaking anxiety (PRPSA) was given to the

participants and asked them to fill up. Upon completion of the questionnaires, the data was

tabulated and analyzed using Karl Pearsons correlation method to find out the relationship

between the variables. The result showed a strong correlation between the level of physical

activity and speech anxiety score. The physical activity has a strong relationship with

Glossophobia.

Key words: Glossophobia, Physical activity, Public speaking Anxiety. Collegiate students.

______________________________________________________________________________

Corresponding author : B.Arun*



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INTRODUCTION

Public speaking anxiety is also known as Glossophobia, 75 % of population having this

fear and one of the most prevalent fears. (McCroskey et al. 1993). Speech anxiety is the fear one

experience when giving a speech in front of an audience. Often this was described as stage fright,

reticence, nervousness, and communication apprehension. Several Americans studies reported

that giving a public speech is the major thing they fear most. It is surprising to note that most

Americans fear public speaking even more than they fear death. (Wallechinsky et al, 1977).

Typically people who experience speech anxiety have shaking knees, sweaty palms, and

butterflies in the stomach. This feeling of being "abnormal" can intensify these negative feelings.

Researchers says that majority of speakers who report an extreme fear of speaking before an

audience usually experience the greatest level of fear prior to and during the introduction of the

speech. (Sprague et al. 1984).

Most of the people who are suffering with speech anxiety choose to deal with their

problem by avoiding public speaking situations. Avoiding is an ideal situation for many people,

but chances are that at some point in time it will be expected to discuss a group project in front of

a class or deliver a speech to co-workers. Understanding the causes and effects of this fear is the

first step in developing a strategy to overcome the anxiety.

Physical activity or Exercise can help to relieve stress, tension, and anxiety. Evidence

clearly shows that regular physical activity improves physiological and psychological health.

However, epidemiological evidence indicates that the level of physical activity declines from

high school to college, and activity patterns in college populations are generally insufficient to

improve health and fitness. Research finds that only 38% of college students participate in

regular vigorous activity, and only 20% participate in regular moderate activity. In contrast, 65%

of high school students report regular vigorous activity, and 26% report regular moderate

activity. It is important to note that the cognitive and behavioral responses to physical activity

breaks during the school day have not been systematically investigated among students.

Physical activity helps in reducing anxiety by expelling excess negative emotions and

adrenaline, that can cause more relax, calm state of being from which to deal with the issues and

conflicts that are causing anxiety. Exercise is one of the most important coping medium to

combat anxiety and stress. Exactly how exercise helps in relaxation and stress management is not

clear. The hypothesis of the benefits of exercises could come from many factors: the decision to

take up exercise, the symbolic meaning of the activity, the distraction from worries, the

acquisition of mastery over a sport, the effects on self-image, and the biochemical and

physiological changes that accompany the activity

Any kind of physical activity might break the mental barriers. Group games provide

opportunities to interact with group members thus reduces the fear of communication. Most of

the educational sessions start with an ice breaking session which is primarily by a group game.



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This plays a major role in reducing their anxiety. Literature search doesnt reveal any reports on

the effect of physical education in reducing speech anxiety. So the Purpose of the study is to find

out the relationship between the Glossophobia and physical activity in collegiate undergraduate

students.

METHODOLOGY

Study design is a cross sectional comparative investigation. 100 subjects were selected by

convenient sampling method with the age group range form 1723yrs. Study was conducted

for duration of 6 months. The study includes students of age group of 17-23 yrs. Both sexes were

included. Volunteer participants were selected. Study excludes students who are not willing. All

the volunteers were selected from K.G.College of health sciences. Coimbatore. A clear

explanation was given to every individual subject. Consent was obtained from every participant

prior to the beginning of the study. The individuals speech anxiety level was measured using

Personal report of public speaking anxiety (PRPSA) and the physical activity level measured

using a Customized Physical activity questionnaire.

The maximum score of Personal Report of Public Speaking Anxiety (PRPSA) is 170. It is

highly reliable (alpha estimates >.90) but it focuses strictly on public speaking anxiety.

(McCroskey, 1970) It classifies the speech anxiety in to high, medium and low. Scores varies

from 34 to 170 with the use of a formula.

Physical activity of each individual measured using a customized physical activity

questionnaire made by us. The face validity of this scale was good. It contains 10 questions.

Scores varies from 1 to 4 in a nominal scale. The maximum score is 40. Score of more than 30

considered being highly active and less than 10 considered to be sedentary.

Before starting of the assessment a clear explanation is given to every individual student.

Students were randomly selected to and have given the questionnaires. Explanations about the

questionnaire were given to all the students. Students those who are unable to understand the

contents are explained in local language. There was a week gap between the first and the second

questionnaire, to avoid bias in the study. The individuals physical activity was measured using

the Customized physical activity questionnaire. The Questionnaires was validated and analyzed

by two senior physiotherapists and a physical director. The Questionnaire is a single paged one

which includes 10 questions where the students should fill up. The Questionnaire was distributed

to every individual who are willing to participate, and a clear Explanation was given to them.

After a week, the individuals anxiety was measured using personal report of public speaking

anxiety questionnaire. It is a valid tool to measure the anxiety experienced by the participants. It

has 34 questions which the individuals should answer all of them.

DATA ANALYSIS

Upon completion of the questionnaires, the data was tabulated and analyzed using Karl



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Pearsons correlation method to find out the relationship between the variables.

The table I shows the demographic data of the study. The age group of the participants

was ranged from 17-23 years. 37 % from 20-21 yrs. 34 % from 22-23 and 29% from 17-19 yrs.

Male vs female ratio was found to be 49% and 51% respectively.

Table I

S.NO Demographic

data

A

(Age group

17-19)

B

(Age group

20-21)

C

(Age group

22-23)

1 Age 29 37 34

2 Sex Female 13 18 20

3 Sex Male 16 19 14

Figure I

Figure I, depicts the datas were analyzed using Kearl Pearson correlation coefficient and

the results were displayed as in Graphical representations

Table II shows the results calculated using Kearl Pearsons correlation coefficient. The

result showed a strong correlation between the level of physical activity and speech anxiety score

0.90. Students with less physical activity had high speech anxiety. It is clear highly active

students will improve their Physical self-worth and physical self-perception, including body

image, has been linked to improved self-esteem, in turn, it reduces the negative effect of anxiety

and improves students academics and interpersonal relationships and performance.

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

29

3734

13

1820

1619

14

Age Sex Female Sex Male

A B C



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The mean physical activity score was 23.48 and the mean PRPSA was 105.29. The

average physical activity level is moderate active level. None of the students fell in highly active

category. The students mean anxiety level also moderate anxiety level.

Figure II shows the relationship between the physical activity score and the anxiety level.

As the physical activity score increases the anxiety level comes down.

Table II

S.No Variables Mean Value Correlation

1 PRPSA 105.29 0.907

2 PAQ 23.48

Figure II

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

0 50 100 150 200

Ph

ysic

al a

ctiv

ity

sco

re

PRPSA score

Series1

Linear (Series1)



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DISCUSSION

Purpose of the study is to determine the relationship between the Physical activity and

Glossophobia. A brief explanation about the study was given to every individual patient and the

informed consent was obtained from them prior to the study. The study starts with the

measurement of the subjects Physical activity through physical activity questionnaire and the

Speech anxiety through the Personal report of public speaking anxiety (PRPSA).

Speech anxiety is a problem, but it is a normal problem. Speech anxiety hinders the

peoples performances. People with speech anxiety opt for quitting out the situation than going

through it. Various studies focused on reduction of speech anxiety, but still it doesnt help much

on the peoples attitude. Physically active adults have enhanced self concepts and self esteem.

They have increase in confidence, assertiveness and emotional stability. (Tekin. 1997). Various

researches showed that there is a difference of physical perception and self esteem in athletes and

non athletes.

Research finds that sedentary people show least tolerance to emotional stress when

compared to physically active individuals. Any kind of exercise can help buffer the effects of

stress if it helps build a person's feelings of control, confidence, effectiveness, and mastery over

life. Much research finds that taking a brisk walk around the campus prior to the presentations

will help in reducing the anxiety. (Atkins et al. 2002).

Research proposes that exercise increases blood flow to the brain, releases hormones,

stimulates the nervous system, and increases levels of morphine like substances found in the

body that can have a positive effect on mood. Exercise may stimulate adrenaline or endorphins

that produces an antidepressant effect in some, an anti-anxiety effect in others, and a general

sense of "feeling better" in most. (Michael, 1981).

Exercise, particularly aerobics has a favorable influence on both acute and chronic state

anxiety. (Petruzzello et al., 1991). Physical activity has a positive effects of exercise on state

anxiety include favorable changes in the exercisers biochemistry, time-out, or distraction,

from the sources or symptoms of anxiety, heightened sense of competence and achievement,

improved self-concept, and increased social support. (Anshel 2007).

There is a growing body of evidence that regular exercise can help people stay healthy

under stress. Exercise can work together with social support, positive attitudes, personality, and

other factors that improve stress resistance. Exercise and physical fitness act as a buffer against

stress, so that stressful events have a less negative impact on psychological and physical health.

(Michael 1981).

One of the first steps in overcoming speech anxiety is identifying the reasons for

apprehensive in public speaking situations. It is important to realize that the fear you are

experiencing on the inside is not always evident to your audience. The key is to view your



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audience as your ally and to visualize yourself as a successful speaker. These tips, combined

with preparation and practice, will help you put fear in its place. By reducing speech anxiety,

your delivery will improve and you will become more confident in your ability as a speaker

The suggestions for treating speech anxiety vary. Connel and Borden (1987) concluded

that desensitization and cognitive modification, two treatment techniques that receive a great

deal of attention in the literature, are useful for speech instructors attempting to re-duce speech

anxiety in their students. Based on statistical analysis found that there is significant in relation

between physical activity and Glossophobia.

This study is focused to find out the relationship between the level of physical activity

and the speech anxiety level of the students. Further interventional studies needed to establish

physical education as an adjacent therapy to reduce speech anxiety.

CONCLUSION

The study concludes that a high level of speech anxiety found among students and it is

highly correlated with their physical activity level. The anxiety level decreases as the physical

activity of the students increases.

REFRENCE

Atkins, W., Sayre. (2002). Speech anxiety. Retrieved from www.usm.edu/speaking centre.

Anshel, M. H. (2007). Applied exercise psychology: A practitioners guide to improving client health and fitness. New York: Springer Publishing Company.

Ayres, J., Hopf,T. (1985). Visualization: A Means of Reducing Speech Anxiety. Communication

Education 34: 318-23.

Marks, I.M., Mathews, A.M. (1979). Brief standard self-rating for phobic patients. Behavior

Research and Therapy, 17, 263-267

McCroskey,J.C. (1977). Oral Communication Apprehension: A Summary of Recent Theory and

Research. Human Communication Research.78-96.

McCroskey. J.C. (1978). Validity of the PRCA as an Index of Oral Communication

Apprehension. Communication Monographs 45. 192-203.

McCroskey, J.C.,(1993). An Introduction to Rhetorical Communication. Englewood Cliffs. NJ:

Prentice Hall.

Michael, H. S.(1981). Psychology of Running, IL. Human Kinetics Publishers Champaign. Pages

192210.

Petruzzello, S. J., Landers, D. M., Hatfield, B. O., Kubitz, K. A., & Salazar, W. (1991). A

analysis on the anxiety-reducing effects of acute and chronic exercise. Sports Medicine,11, 143-

182.



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Plante, T. G. (1993). Aerobic exercise in prevention and treatment of psychopathology. In P.

Seraganian (Ed.), Exercise psychology: The influence of physical exercise on psychological

processes (pp. 358-379). New York: John C. Wiley & Sons.

Seligmann, J., Peyser,M. (1994). Drowning on Dry Land. Newsweek.May 23. 64-66.

Sprague, J., Stewart,D. (1984). The Speaker's Handbook. San Diego: Harcourt Brace

Jovanovich. 277.

Tekin, A. (1997). The effect of physical exercises on anxiety. The sports journal

Wall, J.M. (1994). Not Afraid to Fail; Be Like Mike. The Christian Century. Feb 23,187-88.

Wallechinsky D.,Wallace, I., Wallace, A. (1977). The Book of Lists. New York: Bantam Books.

314.

Zimbardo,P. G., Shyness. (1977). What It Is and What To Do About It. Reading, MA: Addison-

Wesley. 37.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I thank my Chairman Padmashree Dr.G.Bakthavathsalam, Mrs.Vaijayanthi Mohandass,

Director of Education, and Mr. Ramesh,MPT, Principal, K.G.College of Physiotherapy, for their

continuous support and guidance for completion of this study, and lastly to all Students of

K.G.College of Health sciences who participated in the study.

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