The effectiveness of cognitive - behavioral training on reducing of test anxiety

Abstract

Introduction: Test anxiety is the major factor for academic drop and weekness of students' knowledge in primary schools. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral training on reducing of students’ test anxiety. Methods: The research method was experimental namely pretest-posttest with control group. The study population was all male first to third grade students in Sanandaj city. A total of 60 students selected by cluster random sampling method and randomly divided into two groups of 30 students for each group. Sarason test anxiety questionnaire was administered in both groups. The experimental group was under 12 sessions training with cognitive – behavioral method. The control group received no intervention. Results: cognitive- behavioral training was effective on reducing of test anxiety (F= 13/987, P< 0/001, Effect Size=0/31). Conclusion: The training by cognitive - behavioral approach is effective on reducing of anxiety. This method could be applied in clinics for improving of students' academic performance.