Certified Prevention Specialist CPS Practice Exam

What is the fear of public speaking called?

1. Speech Anxiety

2. Oratory Phobia

3. Stage Fright

4. Verbal Panic

The correct answer is: Speech Anxiety

The term commonly used to describe the fear of public speaking is "speech anxiety." This term encapsulates the feelings of nervousness, apprehension, or dread that many individuals experience when they are required to speak in front of an audience. Speech anxiety can manifest in a variety of physical and emotional symptoms, such as sweating, trembling, or feeling overwhelmed, and it may hinder one's ability to communicate effectively. While "oratory phobia" and "stage fright" may also describe similar feelings, they are not as widely recognized or used in clinical settings as "speech anxiety." "Stage fright" typically refers to fear of performing in front of an audience, which can include public speaking, but it is a broader term that might not exclusively apply to the act of speaking. "Verbal panic" is not a commonly recognized term in this context, making "speech anxiety" the most accurate and appropriate choice for describing the specific fear related to public speaking.