The Impact of Math Anxiety on Health-Related Quality of Life and Functional Impairment

Abstract

First discussed in 1954 by Sister Mary Fides Gough, math anxiety is a topic that has been gaining more attention in recent years. Current literature focuses heavily on the intersection of math anxiety and education, yet scant research assesses the impacts on daily life. This study addressed this gap by using an embedded quantitative correlational survey with descriptive open- ended questions to identify the correlation (if any) between math anxiety and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and/or functional impairment. The study adopted Beck’s general theory of anxiety (BGTA) as a framework. The survey consisted of three established measures—the AMAS, SF-36, and SDS—administered to 113 participants. Results indicate that math anxiety and HRQOL have a negative correlation, while math anxiety and functional impairment have a positive correlation. Based on findings, this study recommend that future research should establish a consistent framework (e.g., BGTA) as well as intervention strategies that addresses HRQOL and functional impairments (e.g., cognitive behavioural therapy). Finally, this study recommends that future practice should view math anxiety as a mental health issue and treat it as such.