Question

Daphne owns a night club and frequently entertains large crowds. She feels very comfortable on stage and loves to make people laugh. Justin can’t bear even the thought of speaking to a large group of people. He gets butterflies in his stomach and shakes so badly he can hardly stand, and once even lost his job because he refused to give a presentation to the board of directors. Which of these statements is true?
a.
Daphne has more natural confidence and will likely continue to be more successful than Justin.
b.
Daphne does not feel apprehensive about public speaking and has an advantage over Justin.
c.
Justin can develop as much confidence as Daphne as he gains more experience, practices frequently, and visualizes his own success.
d.
Justin should purchase a night club similar to Daphne’s and conquer his fear by frequently entertaining crowds.

Answer 1

Correct answer: c.

Explanation: Public-speaking anxiety is common but highly responsive to practice, exposure, skill training, and cognitive techniques (e.g., visualization, relaxation, CBT). Justin can build competence and confidence over time.

Why the others are not the best choice:
- a assumes innate, unchangeable superiority and predicts future success—unsupported.
- b is an accurate observation about Daphne but doesn’t address the key point that Justin can improve.
- d is impractical and unnecessary; gradual exposure and training are safer, more effective routes.