You are right about it being anxiety. Most people have performance anxiety as well but you can work on it by diving into those situations and not focusing on the outcome. Once you've become acclimated to the situation, it will become easier. Think of this analogy, the first time a tiger trainer had to interact with a tiger, I imagine the anxiety was at it highest, but as the tiger and trainer work together, confidence is gained. Our egos protect us from perceived harm and when you are put in a situation where you feel vulnerable, those feelings arise. ​ Also, don't focus on a perceived increase in stuttering. Ask yourself, were you blocking more or avoiding more previously? If so, then the reality is, you were avoiding the situation and the increase in stuttering was due to more exposure. ​ I'm no therapist but I think just putting yourself out there more and not being so outcome-dependent, you'll improve your social skills.