SpeakEaze: Overcoming Glossophobia Using Emotion Recognition and Crowd Simulation

Abstract

Glossophobia, also known as the fear of public speaking, is a common issue faced by approximately 75% of people worldwide. People with Social Anxiety Disorder often face this fear as well. But, since engaging with a therapist and discussing their concerns is considered a form of social interaction, individuals with Social Anxiety Disorder tend to prefer self-help approaches instead. The fear of public speaking is a common aspect of SAD, which leads to missed opportunities for personal growth. While Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy are effective, there is a crucial need for a digital platform to empower individuals with SAD, providing a self-help tool. This platform aims to alleviate the fear of public speaking, fostering personal development and enhancing overall quality of life. The project aims to develop an innovative technology-driven platform utilizing deep learning for emotion recognition speech within virtual environments featuring NPCs and crowd simulations. The primary focus is on providing effective exposure therapy for individuals experiencing glossophobia, ultimately aiding them in overcoming public speaking anxiety and enhancing their public speaking skills and confidence. The platform incorporates 3D rigged models, Scripted NPC reactions with varying intensity levels, and emotion recognition algorithms. After the initial implementation, some issues regarding the quality from the NPCs were identified. Addressing these concerns is crucial to ensure the immersive experience of the platform.