June 4th, 2009 
admin Phobias are illogical feelings of fear or dread. In this case we consider the fear people have when it comes to learning the English language. Granted, there are some people who simply consider themselves incapable of learning any foreign languages. Although this is, in fact, disputable given that everyone has the ability to acquire language, it is true that learning a language not native to you can be hard, and takes real dedication. Most people’s hesitation towards learning languages stems from the fear of looking stupid in a classroom environment, or in public.
This phobia often seems to arise as a result of traumatic school experiences, where a lack of concentration leads to humiliating circumstances. Although these first experiences of English learning may have been conducted in the wrong way, learning a language will always throw up the same kind of challenges when put into practice. The trick is not to take them too seriously but to think of them as a curve that every proficient English language speaker goes through.
How to Overcome the Phobia of Learning English
Fear and embarrassment in the fledging language learner, is mostly triggered by;
• Bad pronunciation– No-one likes making sounds that seem unnatural to them especially when they make you look like you have a speech impediment.
• Asking an honest question but being baffled by the extensive reply that you receive or lingering eye contact implying an answer is required of you when you just don’t know what the question was!
• Using a wrong word for something– particularly if it turns out to be rude.
The truth is that once you get far enough in the language learning process, it becomes fun to communicate in that language without such qualms. Cactus courses really help one to start, or re-ignite foreign language skills. Self practice or with a trusted friend also helps to sharpen language skills and with time the phobia leaves you without your knowledge!
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