NationStates Jolt Archive

Whenever I get into a serious debate I have a strange physical reaction. My internal tempeture goes up, sometimes I tremble or shake. I do not feel angry at all , just ill. That's another thing, I never become angry when someone really goes after me, I just feel kinda sick. It is really weird and I don't understand why.
Anybody else have a strange reaction like that or any idea what causes it? I avoid anykind of true debate nine times out of ten because of this. It is why I usually stay away from real debate threads and visit light ones for the most part.

I think it's your fight or flight mechanism kicking in producinf adrenalin (among other things)

I get this sometimes on line, usually when a freind is insulted (i dont seem to have the same reaction for myself)

I cant suggest a cure because as far as i know, there isnt one.

Does the same thing happen if you are suddenly frightened?

Does the same thing happen if you are suddenly frightened?

No, if I am frightened I get a sudden, powerful high that fades slowly leaving me really tired. That is adrenelin, I guess.

I suggest practice. It helps if you can take a good speech class. That way, you are debating in front of maybe 25 people (for some reason, these classes often seem to be small) instead of hundreds or maybe thousands at a debate. This will also give you practice at general speaking, which helps build confidence. Of course, another large element is to be prepared. If you can, get someone to rip your arguments to shreds before you must debate. It will give you a better idea of what to expect, and help eliminate the audience's belief that you are undecisive and easily swayed if you have been toughened in this manner. How you percieve the audience greatly influences your nervousness, so try to not give them a reason to doubt you.