Mathematics, anxiety, and the brain

Ahmed A Moustafa; Richard Tindle; Zaheda Ansari; Margery J Doyle; Doaa H Hewedi; Abeer Eissa

doi:10.1515/revneuro-2016-0065

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Journal article

Peer reviewed

Mathematics, anxiety, and the brain

Ahmed A Moustafa, Richard Tindle, Zaheda Ansari, Margery J Doyle, Doaa H Hewedi and Abeer Eissa

Reviews in the Neurosciences, Vol.28(4), pp.417-429

2017

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1515/revneuro-2016-0065

PMID: 28157694

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Abstract

Psychology

cognition

math anxiety

math education

math learning disability

neural studies

parietal cortex

prefrontal cortex

working memory

Given that achievement in learning mathematics at school correlates with work and social achievements, it is important to understand the cognitive processes underlying abilities to learn mathematics efficiently as well as reasons underlying the occurrence of mathematics anxiety (i.e. feelings of tension and fear upon facing mathematical problems or numbers) among certain individuals. Over the last two decades, many studies have shown that learning mathematical and numerical concepts relies on many cognitive processes, including working memory, spatial skills, and linguistic abilities. In this review, we discuss the relationship between mathematical learning and cognitive processes as well as the neural substrates underlying successful mathematical learning and problem solving. More importantly, we also discuss the relationship between these cognitive processes, mathematics anxiety, and mathematics learning disabilities (dyscalculia). Our review shows that mathematical cognition relies on a complex brain network, and dysfunction to different segments of this network leads to varying manifestations of mathematical learning disabilities.

Details

Title: Mathematics, anxiety, and the brain
Authors: Ahmed A Moustafa (Author) - Western Sydney University
Richard Tindle (Author) - Western Sydney University
Zaheda Ansari (Author) - Western Sydney University
Margery J Doyle (Author) - L-3 Communications Link Simulation and Training
Doaa H Hewedi (Author) - Ain Shams University
Abeer Eissa (Author) - Ain Shams University
Publication details: Reviews in the Neurosciences, Vol.28(4), pp.417-429
Publisher: Walter de Gruyter GmbH
DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2016-0065
ISSN: 2191-0200
PMID: 28157694
Organisation Unit: University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99557708602621
Output Type: Journal article

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Collaboration types: Domestic collaboration; International collaboration
Web Of Science research areas: Neurosciences

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