ABSTRACT
Performers aim for strong performances that don’t just demonstrate their skills and talents to others but become enjoyable experiences for themselves. Unfortunately, performing and auditioning are sometimes perceived as threats, resulting in debilitating anxiety. Actors’ mouths get dry, singers’ voices become shaky, musicians’ hands tremble, and performers in general dread sharing beloved activities with audiences. This chapter looks at the internal and external factors that heighten performance-related anxiety, such as personality factors and pressure from audiences and critics. It considers both the conscious and unconscious thoughts that performers might have about mistakes and about being the center of attention. It addresses the role that clinicians can play in helping their clients manage their physical symptoms and confront damaging thoughts so that they approach performing with confidence.
