K.

Gordon Latham and Julianne Holt-Lunstad (2007)

According to the American Psychological Association (APA) Stage fright, also known as
performance anxiety, refers to “ the intense fear or nervousness experienced by individuals when
they are about to perform in front of an audience” (APA 2021) . It is a psychological response
that can affect anyone, regardless of their level of skill or experience. It commonly affects
musicians, actors, public speakers, and other performers who are required to showcase their
skills or talents in a public setting. Stage fright can manifest through physical symptoms, such as
trembling, sweating, a dry mouth, racing heart, or difficulty in breathing, as well as mental
symptoms like forgetfulness, negative thoughts, self-doubt, and a fear of failure. Wilson, G.D.
(2011).
Stage fright, or performance anxiety, is experienced by individuals before performing in front of
an audience. It is commonly seen in musicians, actors, public speakers, and performers in various
fields. For example A public
speaker, scheduled to give a presentation at a
conference, experiences stage fright as the moment approaches. The
person becomes self-conscious, doubts their ability to deliver the speech
effectively, and starts imagining worst-case scenarios, such as stumbling
over words or receiving negative feedback from the audience. These
examples demonstrate how intense fear and anxiety affect performers and hinder their
performance due to physical symptoms and negative thoughts associated with stage fright.
Lack of confidence; when an individual lacks self confidence can have doubts about self ability
to perform and meet expectations. One study conducted by researchers at the University of
Toronto found that performers who anticipated negative judgment from the audience experienced
greater anxiety and performed worse than performers who did not have this fear .The researchers
concluded that the fear of judgment can lead to a state of fear on the stage. For example, When a
person who perform on the stage has negative thoughts like saying “I’m going to mess up” or “
I’m not good enough” This can be particularly detrimental to performance on stage.
Fear of judgement; people who struggle with stage fright always predict negative evaluation
from the audience who watch to their performance.A study published in the journal “Emotion”
found that when individuals predict a negative judgment from others, it triggers a fear response
in the brain. This response can lead to a number of physical symptoms, such as increased heart
rate and sweating, as well as effects such as difficulty concentrating. All of these factors can
have a negative impact on an individual’s ability to perform on stage.
Fear of technology failure; this refers to anxiety that individuals experience when they are not
confident on their ability to use technological devices properly, normally it occurs when
technology is an integral part if presentation like using projector systems, microphones and
other audio-visual instruments .So people they just fear that technology they are relying on may
fail since they lack awareness and not familiar on the technology, thus increased psychological
symptoms such as sweating. A research made by Akosua-Anyidoho and Charles-Dike(2012)
showed that “performers who had no concerns about effectiveness and reliability of
technological aids experienced high level of performance anxiety than those who were more
confident “
Physiological responses; stage fright can also be caused by some natural body responses which
affects the effectiveness in presentation by the speaker for example sweating, trembling dry
mouth, rapidly heart beats and shortness of breath. These body reactions can intensify anxiety
and further contribute to performance anxiety. ( Nardi et al,2005).
lack of familiarity with the audience;Once a speaker is not familiar with the audience, they may
experience increased nervousness and insecurity. A speaker may worry about how the audience
will react, whether they wii understand the message or not. Also a speaker may feel unsure about
how to connect with the audience or engage them effectively. (Albert, 1971)
Fear of public speaking; This is common phenomenon that can lead to stage fright. When a
person have a fear of public speaking, they experience heightened anxiety and nervousness when
speaking in front of an audience. This anxiety can manifest as physical symptoms such as
sweating or rapid heartbeat. (Carol, 2012).
Negative self-perception, is a cognitive distortion in which a person has a negative view of
themselves and their abilities. A study of Garcia-vidal, Guinjoan, and Fuentes (2018) showed that
negative self-beliefs significantly predicted the level of anxiety experienced by individuals with
stage fright. As having low self esteem, feeling unworthy or believing that one is inferior to
others, negative self-perception can cause stage fright as if a person has a negative view of
themselves, they may believe that they are not good enough to perform on stage. This can lead to
feeling of anxiety and fear that they will make a mistake or embarrass themselves infront of an
audience.
Perfectionism, Perfectionism is a personality trait characterized by an unrelating need to be
perfect and an intense fear of failure. According to Pearson(2011) perfectionism can cause stage
fright by creating high levels of anxiety and doubt. Therfore perfectionism can cause stage fright
in a way that it can lead to intense anxiety about making a mistake or failing to meet the
impossibly high standards that s perfectionist has set for themselves.
In conclusion, stage fright is a common phenomenon that affects performers across various
disciplines, but it can be managed and overcome with proper techniques and support. By
understanding the underlying causes of stage fright, such as fear of judgment or failure,
performers can employ effective coping strategies to mitigate its impact on their performances.
Numerous studies have explored the various techniques, such as visualization, deep breathing,
and positive self-talk, that can be employed to reduce stage fright. Additionally, seeking support
from peers, mentors, and professionals can provide invaluable assistance in managing stage
fright and building confidence on stage. While conquering stage fright may require time and
practice, it is a crucial endeavor for performers to enhance their craft and deliver memorable
performances.
References:
Cox, T., Kenardy, J., & Ball, R. (2015). Predictors of acute stress following motor vehicle
accidents. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 28(2), 127-133.

Falck, R. S. (2019). Public Speaking Apprehension, Communication Competence, and Support-

seeking as Predictors of Stage Fright Among College Students. Communication Education,
68(4), 421-437.

Kruger, L.-M., Giel, K. E., & Schmidt, K. H. (2020). Predictors of artistic stage fright – a
systematic review. BMC Psychiatry, 20(1), 94.

Nardi, A. E., Freire, R. C., & Zin, W. A. (2005). Panic disorder and social anxiety disorder
subtypes: clinical and theoretical modeling. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 66, 2-7.

Sawyer, S. M., & Giulietti, P. E. (2017). The prevalence and impact of long-term conditions and
chronic diseases in adolescence: A review. Journal of Adolescent Health, 60(1), S3-S10.