Complex numbers

Does the idea of high school math still fill you with dread? Do you tend to lose sleep over budgeting your groceries, or calculating your bills? Or, do you tend to avoid activities that require a bit of calculation on your part?

If you fit the descriptions above, then you may be suffering from math anxiety.

If you happen to be a math-lover, the idea of math anxiety might seem absurd — why would simple calculations throw people off? You could argue that without math, the world would not have the complex technologies that make life easier, or see the massive structural wonders around cities.

The world of numbers, series and linear algebra may be a fascinating one to you, but for an alarming number of people, math anxiety is very real. This is basically having an intense dread towards anything related to mathematics.

Those with math anxiety tend to struggle with understanding basic mathematics, and go out of their ways to avoid anything involving numbers. They may be able to analyse every nitty-gritty details of a Shakespearean play, or recite the exact clause from fat law books, and yet, when it comes splitting the bill evenly at a group lunch, they sit quietly hoping someone else would come to their rescue.

WHY DOES MATH ANXIETY EXIST?

The fear of mathematics is more psychological than intellectual. Math anxiety often develops at an early age, as a consequence of struggling with fundamental maths. As one is continually expected to learn additional math, that gets harder and harder, the subject starts to feel more like an alien language than an integral part of everyday life.

Imagine trying to build a 20-storey building upon shaky foundation. Just like the building is destined to collapse, those with a shaky math foundation is destined to end up dreading maths.

In fact, that is exactly what happens when children try to solve elementary mathematical problems without exactly understanding why they are doing it in the first place.

Without real life examples, the subject seems rather tedious. Moreover, when they see their peers excelling at the same course they dread, children simply give up. They assume, math is not for them and stop trying improving their own math skills.

HOW TO HANDLE MATH ANXIETY

To start off, try developing a positive attitude towards maths. Instead of voicing your dislike (if you have one) regarding maths in front of your kids, talk about the fun and important aspects of math. There is a misconception that some people are not good at math, especially girls. Even at an early age, girls are often discouraged to pursue subjects such as maths and science. As a result, their weakness is mislabelled as 'natural.'

Do not fall into this trap! Make sure both the girls and the boys get the necessary help to learn the materials. To make math more fun, why not opt for math games online? Alternatively, you can also show your children everyday math applications. Squeeze in more practice of math problems in your daily lives. Teach them addition or subtraction using candies, or challenge them with a timer, rewarding them with a treat when they finish. 

Finally, do not be too hard on them. Help them shake off mistakes by teaching them that mistakes are just a part of learning. Do not scold them too hard for missing a 0.25 in their class test. That way, they will lose interest in learning and their fear of math will only increase!