Is your kid afraid of Mathematics?

Time of India

02-05-2025

Dr. Sahana Prasad is an adjunct faculty member, consultant, and trainer in the Data analytics domain. More than 7000 English, Kannada and Hindi articles have been published in various newspapers and magazines, in addition to research papers and books on Statistics and DataScience. LESS ... MORE
Mathematics is often referred to as the 'universal language,' yet for many children, this subject evokes fear, anxiety, and confusion. This fear, commonly known as 'math anxiety,' affects a significant number of students globally and can have long-lasting impacts on their academic and professional lives. Understanding the root causes of this fear is the first step toward addressing it.
'Get the answer first, you can learn the logic later!' 'You are so slow, all others have got the answer!' This emphasis on speed and accuracy can create pressure, leading children to feel stressed and inadequate if they struggle. Unlike subjects that allow for creativity and open-ended thinking, math is often seen as rigid and unforgiving, where one mistake can overshadow all efforts.
'You are a stupid child, can't multiply or divide correctly!' 'What do you mean you don't know percentages? It's just multiplying by 100', You mean you don't know how to calculate the discount? such a simple thing!' A major contributing factor is early negative experiences. A child who performs poorly on a test or is unable to grasp a concept may begin to associate math with failure and embarrassment. If these feelings are reinforced over time—by repeated struggles, discouraging feedback, or comparison with peers—they can evolve into a persistent fear.
Parental and societal attitudes also play a significant role. When adults express their own dislike or fear of math, children can absorb and internalize those attitudes. Phrases like 'I was never good at math either' or 'math is just hard' can unintentionally reinforce the idea that struggling with math is expected and acceptable. Media portrayals often contribute to this stereotype, depicting math as a subject for only the intellectually elite.
Moreover, the abstract nature of mathematical concepts can be daunting. Without real-world applications or hands-on learning, children may find it difficult to relate to numbers and equations. The lack of context can make math feel meaningless, further alienating students.
To combat this fear, a shift in teaching approaches is essential. Incorporating visual aids, practical examples, and interactive methods can help demystify math. Encouraging a growth mindset—where mistakes are seen as part of the learning process—can also build confidence. Above all, creating a supportive environment where students feel safe to explore, question, and learn at their own pace can transform math from a source of fear into one of curiosity and achievement.
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Views expressed above are the author's own.