A study examined stages and objectives of a systematic desensitization (SD) program and its effects on subject reported apprehension levels and perceived benefits and behavior changes toward public speaking. Subjects, 19 freshmen and sophomore university students, were administered the Personal Report of Communication Apprehension-24 (PRCA-24). Subjects scoring above average in communication apprehension participated in the SD program while other students participated in specific activities to lessen negative cognitive appraisal and skills deficit. During six consecutive weeks subjects listened to six SD audiotapes contained in "Building Speech Confidence: A Program for Coping with Speech Anxiety." The program used behavior therapy techniques in a pattern of muscle relaxation exercises, visualization activities acting as a substitute for preparing and delivering speeches, and a combination of relaxation and visualization designed to enable subjects to reduce fear of public speaking. A post PRCA-24 was administered after program completion. Results showed significant differences between pre- and posttest PRCA-24 scores for subjects in the SD program. Content coding revealed that the program was perceived as relaxing, helpful, of assistance in speaking and in visualizing fearful scenes. Perceived behavioral changes included ability to control anxiety when speaking, ability to relax, change in attitude, ability to visualize, and ability to speak more often. (Three tables of data and 23 references are attached.) (MM)