Analyzes manuscripts that have studied the treatment of communication apprehension. Concludes that all forms of treatment (cognitive modification, systematic desensitization, and skills training) were effective in reducing public speaking anxiety and that the type of self-report scale did not affect the observed effect size. (MS)

Reports on meta-analysis of 183 experiments comparing the effect sizes (average amount of change observed) of measurement techniques for assessing the effectiveness of public speaking anxiety treatments. Shows differences between self-report, observer, and physiological measurement techniques. Finds no interaction between type of therapy and type…

A study extended the work of M. Allen and R. Preiss (1990) that analyzed the issues in public speaking textbooks and the level of accuracy with which scientific information is represented. A total score analysis of 112 textbooks showed no significant improvement in the accuracy of textbooks over time or with new editions. Findings of the…

Uses the results of meta-analyses examining the effects of various message design strategies to evaluate public speaking and persuasion textbooks. Compares the conclusions of the meta-analyses to the conclusions and advice offered by textbooks that rely on social scientific studies. (MG)