In what manner does stress influence communication?

Stress significantly impacts communication by inducing changes in both speech production and comprehension. When an individual is under stress, physiological and psychological responses can alter their ability to speak clearly and effectively. This can manifest as hesitations, stuttering, or a slower pace of speech as stress can cause cognitive overload. Additionally, comprehension can be affected; stress may lead to difficulties in processing information or understanding messages being communicated. As a result, stressed individuals might misinterpret or overlook important details during interactions, which can hinder the overall quality of communication. Therefore, recognizing how stress can disrupt normal communication patterns is crucial in both personal and professional contexts.