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Learning Objective 1: Discus the concept of performance anxiety
Learning Objective 2: Identify those who may be experiencing performance anxiety
Use of cognitive behavioral therapy concepts, progressive muscle relaxation, and reflective journalingh as been shown to decrease performance in musicians and actors, but there have been no studies in new graduates, or with this combination of interventions. Peplau's theory of interpersonal relations suggests that relationships play an important role in mediating anxiety. Because the preceptor model is used very frequently, it is likely that relationships with preceptors and the perceived level of social support could influence the success of transition and managing performance anxieyty.
Using a quasi-experimental, mixed methods design, the sample was drawn from 2 classes of new graduates from a 6-month nurse residency program. Participants self-administered instruments that measured performance anxiety, perceptions of social support from preceptors, and preceptor relationships. They were also asked to journal weekly. This study verified the presence and level of performance anxiety in this sample. Results revealed a decrease in performance anxiety in both the control and treatment groups. There was no significant influence of relationship or perception of social support on the level of performance anxiety. Performance anxiety did not appear to have a negative affect on the transition of these new graduates.