Math anxiety is a common phenomenon that affects many people, regardless of age, gender, or culture. It is characterized by feelings of fear, dread, and apprehension when faced with a math task. Researchers believe that this anxiety may be caused by a lack of self-esteem, negative experiences in mathematics, or even exhaustion of working memory. Math anxiety can be measured using different scales and has been linked to worse long-term performance in mathematics than in other academic subjects.
Fortunately, there are ways to overcome math anxiety. New cognitive and neuroscientific research has revealed that math anxiety is related to increased activity in areas of the brain that relate to fear of failure before a math task. This fear takes up mental space during a math task, making it difficult to think and solve problems. To combat this, it is important to practice mathematics and look for alternative approaches to evaluating mathematics that are less stressful for students.
Additionally, expressive writing can help students with high levels of math anxiety by allowing them to express their feelings and gain insight into how their anxiety affects their work. Teachers also play an important role in helping students overcome math anxiety. They should learn techniques to help students manage their anxiety and encourage them to practice these techniques at home. Furthermore, they should strive to create an environment where mathematics is seen as a joy and necessity for all children, rather than a dreaded subject for only a few elite students.
Finally, it is important to remember that math anxiety is not just a response to poor math performance; in fact, four out of five students with math anxiety have average to high math performance. With the right strategies and support, anyone can learn to manage their math anxiety and enjoy broader and better-paying career opportunities.
