Reduction of examination anxiety and ‘stage-fright’ by group desensitization and relaxation

The results of the experiment in group desensitization, relaxation and imagination of exam situations in groups of children (n = 23) and students (n = 13) show that systematic desensitization is an efficient method for reducing stage-fright. Some transient positive effects were also achieved with a modification of the Schultz method of relaxation. Interviews, a Fear Survey Schedule and a test of palmar perspiration were used in the assessment of effects. The main conclusions are concordant with previous studies in desensitization (e.g. Lang and Lazovik, 1963; Rachman, 1965, 1966 a and b; Lazarus, 1961; Paul and Shannon, 1966) and the present results provide interesting comparisons.