Deconstructing the impact of gender, culture and society on public speaking anxiety: Perspectives of psychologists and business studies students

Abstract

Most people, across the globe, fear the prospect of standing and speaking in front of an audience. This study elucidates the process by which preconceived gender roles, societal expectations, and cultural dynamics contribute to public speaking anxiety (PSA) amongst male and female undergraduate Business Administration students in Karachi, Pakistan. Through a qualitative approach, this research highlights distinct gendered experiences of public speaking anxiety (PSA), with female students reporting higher anxiety levels driven by societal pressures and unwanted scrutiny. However, in the same context, male students also suffer from public speaking anxiety, but for various different reasons, including hegemonic masculinity and societal expectations that discourage vulnerability and display of emotion. As a coping mechanism, female students mostly report a reliance on social support, while male students report a preference to avoid any situations that would lead to a speech in front of an audience. This study provides significant insights into the intricate interplay of societal norms, cultural dynamics, and gender stereotypes in shaping individuals' experiences with public speaking anxiety (PSA). The findings hold critical implications for educators, counsellors, and policymakers, informing their efforts to establish inclusive and supportive environments conducive to developing strong communicative competencies.