Literature Review on Factors Affecting Students’ Mathematics Anxiety

Abstract

Mathematics anxiety is one of the affective barriers that can reduce students’ learning motivation and academic achievement. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence the emergence of mathematics anxiety in students. The research method used was a literature study with content analysis techniques on fifteen relevant articles. The results showed that mathematics anxiety is influenced by internal factors, such as low self-confidence, as well as external factors, particularly rigid teaching methods used by teachers. In addition, family support and the social environment also affect students’ anxiety levels, although pressure from parenting styles and the abstract nature of mathematics material remain challenges. This study concludes that reducing mathematics anxiety requires strengthening students’ emotional regulation, implementing flexible teaching approaches, and providing continuous emotional support from families.