International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE)
Vol 15, No 4: August 2026

Mathematical mindset shift: reducing math anxiety and enhancing attitudes in secondary school students through growth mindset intervention

Noor Atiqah Mohd Noh (SEGi University)
Aini Marina Ma'rof (University Putra Malaysia)
Yusni Mohamad Yusop (University Putra Malaysia)



Article Info

Publish Date
05 Aug 2026

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of a growth mindset intervention (GMI) in improving mathematical mindset, reducing math anxiety, and enhancing attitudes toward mathematics among secondary school students. A true-experimental design was employed, involving 69 Form Two students from secondary schools in Kedah, Malaysia. Participants were randomly assigned to a treatment group (n=35) or a control group (n=34). Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). The results revealed significant differences in math anxiety (p=0.000) and attitudes toward math (p=0.000) between the treatment and control groups after controlling for covariates (math scores and gender). However, no significant difference was observed in mathematical mindset between groups (p=0.292). Within the treatment group, significant improvements were noted in mathematical mindset (p=0.001), math anxiety (p=0.000), and attitudes toward math (p=0.000), while the control group showed no significant changes across these variables. Students in the treatment group experienced reduced math anxiety and improved attitudes toward math following the intervention. These findings suggest that GMI is an effective strategy for mitigating math anxiety and fostering positive attitudes toward mathematics, providing valuable insights for educators seeking to improve students' learning experiences and outcomes.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJERE

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

The International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE) is an interdisciplinary publication of original research and writing on education which publishes papers to international audiences of educational researchers. The IJERE aims to provide a forum for scholarly understanding of ...