Test Anxiety is a condition in which children and adolescents experience intense worry, tension, and fear of failure before or during exams. A certain level of anxiety can be motivating; however, when the intensity increases, it may lead to difficulties in concentration, inability to recall information, and a decline in performance.
Children experiencing test anxiety may show physical symptoms such as stomachaches, nausea, heart palpitations, and sweating. In addition, negative thoughts such as “I will fail” or “I am not good enough,” avoidance of studying, or freezing during exams are also commonly observed. This process can affect not only academic performance but also the child’s self-esteem and overall emotional well-being.
Factors contributing to test anxiety may include high expectations, perfectionism, past negative exam experiences, and low self-confidence. The attitudes of family and the surrounding environment are also important factors influencing this process. Therefore, the evaluation process considers the child’s emotional state, thought patterns, and environmental influences together.
In the support process, the goal is to develop coping skills for managing anxiety, restructure maladaptive thought patterns, and establish effective study habits. When necessary, psychological support can help children approach exams in a calmer, more focused, and self-confident manner. With appropriate support, test anxiety can be managed, allowing children to demonstrate their full potential more effectively.
Dr Mehmet Çolak, SpecialistChild and Adolescent Psychiatrist