Anxiety and Academic Performance: A Study of Pakistani Secondary School Students in Karachi

Abstract

Anxiety is considered to be a major psychological factor that can affect students’ academic performance. The current research explores the relationship between anxiety and academic achievement of secondary school students in Karachi by using a standardized anxiety scale and academic records, through a mixed method approach. Semi-structured interviews with students and teachers also provided qualitative insights into academic anxiety its causes and its consequences. The results showed an inverse relationship between the level of anxiety and academic performance, whereas the fear of failure and performance anxiety, together with test anxiety, led to poor grades. Gender differences were present, with female students indicating a higher level of anxiety as compared to males. Other important factors leading to students’ anxiety are their socioeconomic status and their parents’ expectations.