Fear of Negative Evaluation: Differences amongst librarians

Abstract

The “fear of negative evaluation” (FNE), is a social anxiety construct that affects many workers. This does not necessarily mean that the subject believes they are performing badly, just that they are afraid of having performance evaluated negatively by others. The “Fear of Negative Evaluation” instrument created by David Watson and Ronald Friend was used. Results indicate that FNE does exist amongst librarians, more prevalently in women, younger librarians, and those at the beginnings of their career. The paper also offers further information, advice, and suggestions for improving workplaces for those with FNE.