The Association Between Test Anxiety, Self-Efficacy, and Mental Images Among University Students: Results From an Online Survey

Abstract

Background and Objectives: A substantial portion of students report test anxiety, and those reporting low levels of self-efficacy seem to be especially affected. Previous research has indicated the relevance of mental images in the maintenance of anxiety disorders, however, no data are available with respect to test anxiety. In order to close this gap, the present study investigates the association between test anxiety, self-efficacy and mental images.Method: One hundred sixty-three university students completed an online survey. Test anxiety (PAF), general self-efficacy (WIRKALL-r), study-related self-efficacy (WIRK_STUD), intrusiveness of mental images (IFES), spontaneous use of imagery (SUIS) and vividness of imagery (VVIQ) were examined.Results: Test-related mental images were frequently reported among the surveyed students. Test anxiety showed a positive correlation with IFES and a negative correlation with self-efficacy. Mediation analyses showed that about one fifth of the influence of self-efficacy on test anxiety is mediated by IFES.Discussion: The present study gives first indication about an association between test anxiety, self-efficacy and mental images, even though the results are limited with respect to generalizability. Further investigations with respect to the impact of test-related mental images on the self-efficacy/test-anxiety linkage are needed.

Development and Validation of the School in China REfusal EvaluatioN Scale (SCREEN): A Tool to Assess School Refusal in Chinese Adolescents

“…From a psychological perspective, individual factors such as anxiety 9 , motivation 10 , and self-efficacy play critical roles in the manifestation of SR. However, isolating these variables without considering the broader context may lead to incomplete or ineffective interventions.…”

Motivation as a Key Determinant of Academic Achievement of Nursing Students

“…It is a psychological condition characterized by excessive worry, fear, and physiological symptoms experienced before, during, or after an examination (Torbjørnsen et al, 2021). In the context of nursing education, test anxiety can be particularly detrimental, as it may hinder a student's ability to effectively demonstrate their knowledge and skills in high-stakes exams (Maier et al, 2021). The results of our study indicated that students had an average level of test anxiety as they reported their thoughts of how poorly doing compared with other students and some of them agreed to have a heart beating fast, uneasy, upset feeling when they take an exam.…”

“…So, it is illustrated in the results of the present study that students confidently understand and master the basic concepts as well as difficult material taught to them. Undeniably, the curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment practices play a significant role in shaping self-efficacy (Maier et al, 2021). So, nursing faculty can enhance students' motivation and their belief in their success by fostering positive self-beliefs through self-reflection and self-assessment.…”

“…By keeping students motivated, they are more likely to maintain a positive mindset, resilience, and overall mental well-being. This can enhance their ability to cope with the demanding aspects of nursing education and future nursing practice (Maier et al, 2021) Besides, motivation enhances students' professional development and their long-term outlook. Motivated nursing students are more apparently to engage in extracurricular activities, such as joining professional organizations or participating in research projects.…”

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