Means to Overcome the Anxieties of Second Language Learners.

The fears and anxieties of students in second language learning situations often prevent successful performance in the language. Three techniques from Behavior Modification can be applied to overcome such anxieties and to further achievement in second language learning: (1) Systematic Desensitization; (2) Cognitive Restructuring; and (3) Modeling and Guided Participation. The goal of Systematic Desensitization is to give the person the opportunity to make a positive reaction in the face of the anxiety-causing situation and therefore experience a sense of achievement. Systematic exposure to the anxiety-causing situation without the occurence of anxiety is the decisive factor governing the elimination of the anxiety. The second technique is intended to promote awareness of the anxious person's verbal and non-verbal behavior and cognitively restructure unrealistic anticipation, e.g. anticipation of failure or peer derision. The basic principle of the third technique involves arranging the environment and supporting the person so that the occurrence of anxiety is reduced sufficiently to ensure a successful experience. (Author/CFM)