This new edition represents a summation of the extensive work that has been done on communication apprehension, shyness, reticence, and so forth. It is an invaluable introduction to the area for the novice and a ‘must have’ reference book for serious scholars. Practitioners will find it useful for its detailed coverage of intervention tactics and their relative effectiveness. Those interested in understanding why they are fearful in communication situations will find the book’s explanations to be of considerable use. All in all, the book is a wonderful resource for anyone with an interest in phenomena that interfere with communication activities.