Mathematics anxiety or phobia is defined as the panic, helplessness, and mental disorganization that arises in some people when required to solve mathematical problems. It can interfere with manipulating numbers and solving problems in academic and everyday situations. Characteristics include physical symptoms like nausea, shortness of breath, sweating, and feelings of isolation and loss of self-confidence. Causes may include examinations, pressure to perform well, beliefs that math is only for geniuses, low math proficiency, and negative experiences with parents, teachers, or peers. Effects in the short term include feeling afraid and under pressure, while long term impacts can be losing confidence and the ability to help one's children with math. Prevention strategies involve
3. DEFINITION
“The panic, helplessness, paralysis, and
mental disorganization that arises among
some people when they are required to
solve a mathematical problem”.
(Tobias & Weissbrod, 1980)
4. DEFINITION
“Feeling of tension and anxiety that interfere
with the manipulation of numbers and the
solving of mathematical problems in a wide
variety of ordinary life and academic
situations”.
(Gierl&Bisanz, 1995)
5. DEFINITION
“Mathematics anxiety has to do with a
sense of discomfort while required to work
on mathematical problems”.
(Hadfield & Trujillo, 1999;Ma , 2003)
