Dealing With Test Anxiety

Parenting Your Teen

BALANCING LIFE’S ISSUES, INC.

Objectives

Definition of test anxiety

Causes

Who is vulnerable

Best practices to alleviate test anxiety

Definition

Test anxiety is a performance anxiety

“Test anxiety is a condition that occurs when a child experiences discomfort, tension or increased concern in response to a situation in which they will be tested”

source: www.kickoutstress.com

Situational

Physical symptoms

Emotional symptoms

Causes

Reaction to anticipating something stressful

Pressure

Fear

Negative thoughts

Lack of confidence

Who is Vulnerable

Perfectionists

Unprepared students

Poor study habits

Poor organization skills

Procrastinators

Inappropriate placement (too hard a class for

student)

Best Practices

To Alleviate Test Anxiety Prepare, prepare, prepare Basic stress management techniques Get help (tutors, study groups) Nip negative thinking in the bud Accept imperfection No cramming, sleep, sleep, sleep (minimum 8 hours

night) Learn test taking skills Limit distractions when studying Have students write about their anxiety before a high

stakes test.

Parenting Your TeenDealing With Test Anxiety