Abstract
Researchers in physiology and health fields have reported a significant impact from using diaphragmatic breathing (DB) to help individuals reduce anxiety. However, few communication researchers have explored the use of this simple DB technique to help basic course students reduce communication apprehension (CA). Thus, this investigation explored the use of diaphragmatic breathing (DB) in helping students moderate CA. Respondents completed McCroskey’s (1982) Personal Reports of Communication Apprehension (PRCA-24) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) after each of four formal classroom speeches. Results indicated the experimental group using DB reported a significant decrease in state anxiety from speech the first two speeches to the last two speeches. Applications for basic course teachers and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Howe, Marlina Marie and Dwyer, Karen Kangas
(2007)
"The Influence of Diaphragmatic Breathing to Reduce Situational Anxiety for Basic Course Students,"
Basic Communication Course Annual: Vol. 19, Article 9.
Available at:
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/bcca/vol19/iss1/9
Included in
Higher Education Commons, Interpersonal and Small Group Communication Commons, Mass Communication Commons, Other Communication Commons, Speech and Rhetorical Studies Commons