1. Test Anxiety: Causes and Treatments Dr. David Ross College of Lake County daveross@clcillinois.edu http://clcpages.clcillinois.edu/home/cou052/

2. Causes and Treatments  Test anxiety or test performance problems come from a variety of sources.  Treatment should consequently be multi- dimensional.  There is great variation between individuals.

3. Cause: Unfamiliarity Brand new situations  Ask the teacher to provide a sample test.  Ask students to create sample tests.  Use textbook tests or publisher supplied materials.  Ask the teacher to give a practice test.

4. Cause: Lack of Preparation  Teach basic study skills, especially active ready and memory strategies.  Encourage the use of a planner and study calendar.  Encourage the students to spend more time on task.

5. Cause: Poor Test Taking Skills  Encourage student to underline key words.  Learn and use a “skipping” strategy.  Practice outlining essay questions.  Practice, practice, practice.

6. Cause: Lifestyle-Stress  Teach basic stress management, especially learning how to break things down.  Work with the student’s existing support systems.  Provide individual counseling support.

7. Cause: Lifestyle-Diet and Self Care  Have student keep a diet log, then review when and what they consume, including alcohol and drugs.  Be aware of potential blood sugar problems and eating disorders.  Emphasize the benefits of improved cardio conditioning.

8. Cause: Negative Self-Talk  Analyze the patterns of thinking, such as “I can’t do math”.  Identify and challenge irrational thinking (cognitive restructuring).  Help create positive self statements: “I am prepared, I can do this.”

9. Cause: Conditioned Anxiety  Determine if it is from a single traumatic event, or from an accumulation of failures.  Systematic Desensitization.  Simple, in-class relaxation.

10. Simple In-Class Relaxation Fantasy And Relaxation Technique

11. Current Resources at CLC  PDS 120 – “Becoming a Successful Student”. Regular study skills and a special section for test anxiety.  Dr. Ross’ web site: http://clcpages.clcillinois.edu/home/cou052 /dranxiety.html http://clcpages.clcillinois.edu/home/cou052 /dranxiety.html http://clcpages.clcillinois.edu/home/cou052 /dranxiety.html  Individual Consultations/Student Referrals.

12. Future Resources at CLC  Updated Counselors Handbook.  On-line training program.  Participation in pilot project for high school and/or middle school. Contact Dr. Ross directly if interested: daveross@clcillinois.edu