EMOTIONAL EXHAUSTION AND TIME MANAGEMENT AS PREDICTORS OF GLOSSOPHOBIA AMONG MUSLIM UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN THE GAMBIA

Abstract

This study examined whether emotional exhaustion and time management, each treated as an independent variable, are related to glossophobia, the dependent variable, among Muslim university students in The Gambia. A quantitative, cross-sectional correlational design was used. The four institutions were purposively selected: the University of The Gambia (UTG), the International Open University (IOU), the American International University West Africa (AIUWA), and the Management Development Institute (MDI). Their estimated student population was 8,000 to 10,000, and a sample of 200 students (50 per institution, equally divided by gender) was drawn through multi-stage stratified sampling. Three fifteen-item scales adapted from established instruments were used: the Emotional Exhaustion Scale (α = .84), the Time Management Scale (α = .81), and the Glossophobia Scale (α = .86). Validity was ensured through adaptation from established instruments, expert review, and pilot testing. Data were analysed with Pearson Product-Moment Correlation at the .05 level of significance. Emotional exhaustion was strongly and positively correlated with glossophobia (r = .63, p < .001), and time management was strongly and negatively correlated with glossophobia (r = −.55, p < .001). Because the design is cross-sectional and correlational, the results show association rather than cause or prediction. The findings are interpreted through the Job Demands-Resources Model, Stress and Coping Theory, and Cognitive Load Theory. It is recommended that lecturers provide supportive speaking opportunities, that universities strengthen counselling services and time-management training, and that education policymakers and the Government integrate communication and stress-management skills into the higher education curriculum and fund further research.