How to Assess Computer Anxiety

Computers have become an integral part of life for many people. From educational institutions to the workplace, computers are used for a large array of tasks. However, not all people feel comfortable with computers. Anxiety toward computers affects 30 to 40 percent of the population, according to the University of Southern Maine. This anxiety may include feelings of fear, embarrassment, frustration, disappointment and failure. Identifying computer anxiety is the first step to helping people who suffer with this condition.

Instructions

• 1

  Record the physical and emotional response. When assessing a person's computer anxiety, note the person's name, age and frequency of computer use. Observe and ask about his level of discomfort when he uses technology. Look for symptoms such as sweaty palms, upset stomach, headaches and heart palpitations. Additionally, ask about the person's thought process. He may be struggling with an array of negative messages or may be concerned that he will hit the wrong button and cause irreparable harm. He may believe that everyone knows how to use the technology except him.

• 2

  Evaluate avoidance behaviors. People with computer-related anxiety may go to great lengths to avoid computers. They may avoid entering rooms where computers are located or use excessive caution around computers. They may use negative statements when referring to computers. Additionally, when computer use is necessary, they may cut this short in an attempt to relieve anxiety.

• 3

  Administer a computer anxiety assessment test using pen and paper. These tests ask participants to rate their level of discomfort during computer-related activities. These tests include the Computer Anxiety Rating Scale (CARS), the Computer Anxiety Scale (COMPAS) and the Computer Anxiety Index (CAIN).

• 4

  Categorize the anxiety. There are three levels of computer anxiety or technophobia: anxious technophobe, cognitive technophobe and uncomfortable user. An anxious technophobe will show all the classic signs of anxiety including a strong physical reaction. A cognitive technophobe will be relaxed on the surface but experience a great deal of internal discomfort and negativity. An uncomfortable user will experience a slight amount of anxiety.