Impact of Mathematics Anxiety on Academic Achievement among Higher Secondary School Students in West Bengal

Abstract

Mathematics anxiety has emerged as a significant psychological and educational concern that adversely affects students’ learning experiences, confidence, problem-solving abilities, and academic performance. At the higher secondary level, students often encounter increased academic pressure, complex mathematical concepts, and high-stakes examinations, which may contribute to the development of mathematics anxiety. The present study investigates the impact of mathematics anxiety on the academic achievement of higher secondary school students in West Bengal. The study seeks to explore the extent to which feelings of fear, tension, apprehension, and nervousness associated with mathematics influence students’ academic performance.

A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. Data were collected from higher secondary school students through a standardized Mathematics Anxiety Scale and academic achievement records. The study examines variations in mathematics anxiety across demographic and educational variables and analyzes the relationship between mathematics anxiety and academic achievement. Previous research has consistently reported a significant negative relationship between mathematics anxiety and academic performance, indicating that students with higher levels of anxiety tend to achieve lower academic outcomes in mathematics.

The findings of the study are expected to reveal that mathematics anxiety acts as a barrier to effective learning by reducing students’ concentration, self-confidence, motivation, and problem-solving efficiency. The study further highlights the importance of supportive classroom environments, effective instructional practices, counseling interventions, and positive teacher-student interactions in reducing mathematics anxiety. The research offers valuable insights for teachers, parents, counselors, and policymakers in developing strategies to promote mathematical confidence and improve academic achievement among higher secondary school students in West Bengal.