CMC Apprehension

People can encounter difficulties with communication competence which can lead to communication apprehension, “an individual’s level of fear or anxiety associated with either real or anticipated communication with another person or persons” (McCroskey 1977, 78) (28).

Apprehension can alter competence by two methods. The first method is that personal connections can be through online networks, making the person feel uncomfortable. Or, the second method is that people adapt to CMC because it’s a straightforward approach to communicating and there no need for face-to-face conversations. CMC does correlate with degrees of communications apprehension. For example, people that show a higher degree will prefer to utilize technology to address criticism instead. 

Researchers decided to revise the definition of communication apprehension to combine the perceptions about anxiety, especially connecting with society while using technologies. People that do not like to communicate will have fears toward CMC and will tend to refrain themselves from using it. Such as not accepting new formats of telecommunications; staying away from instant messaging like Facebook or emails. There are few chances that they will resort to it for comfort, closeness, and socialization. As a result, these individuals will barely have social objectives, and if they want to improve this concern, learning information about these technologies will help. 

CMC and Social Skill Deficits 

Research has shown that internet consumption has significantly grown in the past years as socializing can happen online. People that are sociable and exhibit greater social skills are most likely to have more friends on online platforms. Having an online presence can enhance offline communication competence. 

Folks that favour isolation will likely to spend more time on the internet. Online interactions will give them a sense of comfort and reassurance. These folks will give in effort in making online friends using social platforms instead of making friends through personal contact. It is also shown that children that display this behaviour will grow up choosing online than offline interactions. 

Conclusion 

In today’s society, keeping multiple networks with people is the key to being able to communicate efficiently. Everyone must have the motivation to obtain skill and knowledge that allows us to cooperate.

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