Well, umm, I think it has to do with common vocabulary and reference points...you know, niche terms. I used to tell people to "Make a left at the Oak tree, and right at the Willow." Clearly, those were common reference points where I lived. A "specialized" vocabulary for the locals.

I think what I was trying to say was that you can work with a person to get them past the fear. How they might evolve as a programer is a different matter.