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Published on: August 28, 2021
Development and Validation of the Brief Math Anxiety Scale (BMAS) in University Students
M I Núñez-Peña1, Georgina Guilera
1University of Barcelona (Spain), Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona (Spain), Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat (Spain).
Background:
This study developed the Brief Math Anxiety Scale (BMAS), a brief version of the Shortened Math Anxiety Rating Scale (sMARS), maintaining its original three-factor structure, by applying item response theory.
Method:
The sMARS was administered to 1,349 undergraduates, along with other questionnaires to measure their math ability, trait and test anxieties, and attitudes toward mathematics.
Results:
Results showed that the original scale could be reduced to nine items (three for each subscale). We provided evidence of good psychometric properties: strong internal consistency, adequate 7-week test-retest reliability, and good convergent/discriminant validity.
Conclusions:
In conclusion, the BMAS provides valid interpretations and reliable scores for assessing math anxiety in university students, and is especially useful in situations with time constraints where the longer form is impractical.
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Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder

