Test Anxiety in High and Low Achievers

The study examined the level of test anxiety in high and low achievers and its relationship with academic achievement. Gender differences in test anxiety for high and low achievers and interactive effect of gender and academic achievement on test anxiety were also looked into. A purposive sample of 187 undergraduate students (126 high and 61 low achievers) was obtained. Test anxiety was measured through Spielberger's Test Anxiety Inventory (Spielberger, 1980b). Results showed high achievers experience less test anxiety as compared to low achievers. Female high achievers experienced more test anxiety as compared to male high achievers whereas male low achievers experienced more test anxiety than female low achievers. A significant interactive effect of gender and academic achievement on test anxiety was also found.