Stage fright
Stage fright, also known as performance anxiety, is a social anxiety disorder that manifests when individuals perform or appear in public. This condition affects people across all age groups and levels of experience, with estimates suggesting that around 20 percent of the U.S. population experiences it. Notably, many renowned figures—including actors, musicians, and politicians—have publicly acknowledged their struggles with stage fright, highlighting its prevalence even among those who frequently engage with audiences.
Symptoms of stage fright can include physical reactions such as racing hearts, trembling legs, and sweating palms, as well as emotional distress due to the fear of making mistakes or not being accepted by others. The condition arises from the body's "fight-or-flight" response, which misinterprets non-physical stressors as threats. Fortunately, strategies such as thorough preparation, visualization of success, and relaxation techniques can help individuals manage their anxiety. Building rapport with the audience and focusing on friendly faces can also ease the pressure of public performance. Understanding that mistakes are part of the human experience can further alleviate the fear associated with stage fright.
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Stage fright
Stage fright is a social anxiety disorder that occurs when a person makes some sort of appearance in public. Formally known as performance anxiety, stage fright affects people of all ages and at all levels of expertise. Many famous actors, musicians, athletes, politicians, and others who routinely speak or perform in public have had the condition, and one form of the condition, the fear of public speaking, is the most commonly cited fear in many surveys. While the condition is common and can cause considerable distress, steps can be taken to overcome it and to perform despite it.
Overview
Stage fright stems from a fear of showing vulnerability in front of others, when it is possible that one may make a mistake or not be liked by others. As much as 20 percent of the population of the United States suffers from stage fright, including many famous people who perform or appear in public for a living. Among performers who have acknowledged suffering from stage fright are Hugh Grant, Andrea Bocelli, Rod Stewart, Donny Osmond, Barbra Streisand, Carly Simon, Renee Fleming, and Jay Mohr. Many famous statesmen have struggled to overcome stage fright, including ancient Roman philosopher Cicero, famed spiritual leader Mahatma Gandhi, and American founding father Thomas Jefferson.
Stage fright is a condition characterized by a racing heart, trembling legs and knees, shaking hands, sweating palms, and a tightening throat. An upset stomach and dry mouth are other symptoms. Millions of people are afflicted with this condition, which can be triggered whenever the need arises to speak or perform in front of a group. The symptoms of stage fright result from the body's inability to differentiate between real and perceived threats. The body's "fight-or-flight" reflex prepares the person to react to danger.
The problem arises because with stage fright, the "danger" is not a physical danger. Instead, it is a fear—often a fear of failure or of embarrassing oneself—that triggers the reaction. Usually there is little basis for the fear. In other instances, some cause for anxiety may exist. For example, a student who is going to present a report for which she has not adequately prepared may justly fear the teacher's reaction, or a freshman athlete who suddenly finds himself starting on the varsity team may be concerned about embarrassing himself.
People can take steps to minimize or avoid stage fright. Being prepared can help, as can recognizing that everyone makes mistakes and that any consequences are not likely as bad as those one imagines. Visualizing a successful performance and recalling past successes can dampen fear. It can be helpful to realize that the audience is not an enemy; establishing a rapport with audience members by smiling at them and greeting them can help.
Relaxation techniques can be beneficial. It also helps to be well rested and fed before speaking or performing. Deep breathing exercises and focusing on calm, reassuring thoughts can settle nerves. A friendly face in the crowd can provide a place to focus for encouragement as well.
Bibliography
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