Stage fright
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For other uses, see Stage fright (disambiguation).
Stage fright or performance anxiety refers to an anxiety, fear or persistent phobia related to performance in front of an audience or camera. This form of anxiety can precede or accompany participation in any activity involving public self-presentation.
Often the term "stage fright" is conflated with glossophobia, a fear of speaking in public. Jugglers and mimes are the simplest examples of the difference in notions.
Performance anxiety is also observed in sportsmen. In the latter case it is interpreted as a fear to underperform (in view of the actual public or implied publicity).
Quite often stage fright arises in a mere anticipation of a performance, often long time ahead. It has numerous manifestations: fluttering or pounding heart, tremor in hands and legs, diarrhea, facial nerve tics, dry mouth.
Stage fright may be observed in ordinary people, beginning artists, as well as in accomplished ones.
Some musicians use beta blockers to avoid stage fright during auditions, and performances.[1]
[edit] References
- ^ Better Playing Through Chemistry by Blair Tindall, New York Times, October 17, 2004. (Discussing the use of beta-blockers among professional musicians — Registration Required)
