EXAMOPHOBIA

I have a severe stomach ache, I feel like vomiting ... Mom, please!! I can't go for exam.
I read it! I knew it all ... But I just blacked out.
I just couldn't write! My hands were trembling.
I messed up this question! I can do nothing right... I can never succeed in life!!
It's not uncommon for students to experience such problems before/ during an exam.
Most of us suffer from some degree of anxiety when we prepare or sit for an examination.
Examination usually leads to a lot of tension and anxiety commonly known as examination
phobia. Examination phobia or Examophobia is a mental disorder found in most of the
students. When exams arrive, students become extremely worried and make plans about
how to study, how to perform better and get good grades. Some students find exams so
difficult that the phobia makes them sick as they simply find themselves unable to cope up
with the exam fear. There may be sweating, palpitations that disturb so much that one
cannot think straight and end up messing up the paper. Also, in subsequent exams, it
becomes worse and the fear intensifies. The person may end up feeling a failure, feeling
guilty and may even be suicidal!
Anxiety is a normal human feeling that is part of life and can often serve as a good form of
adrenaline. However, in few people, this adrenaline rush exceeds normal limits and at times
may lead to some negative consequences.
Exam anxiety is:
1. Excessive worry about upcoming exams
2. Fear of being evaluated
3. Apprehension about the consequence
4. Experienced by many normal students
POSSIBLE CAUSES
(I) Environmental Causes
1. High expectations of parents
2. Parents imposing their ambitions on children
3. Parents competing for higher social status through child's scores
4. Constant comparison with other kids
5. Fear of teachers
6. Insulting remarks from teachers
(II) Poor studying styles:
1. Inefficient:
1. Irregular coverage of the entire syllabus
2. Trying to memorize the course book
3. Binge learning
4. Studying all-night right before exams
2. Ineffective:
1. Reading without understanding the topic
2. Unable to recollect the material
3. Not making revision notes
4. Not revising
(III) Psychological factors:
1. Feeling little or no control over the exam situation (rather than knowing and applying
exam strategies)
2. Negative thinking and self-criticism
3. Irrational thinking about exams and outcomes
4. Irrational beliefs If I don't pass, my (family/boyfriend/girlfriend/friends) will lose respect
for me
5. Irrational demands I have to get at least 98% or I am worthless.
6. Catastrophic predictions I'll fail no matter what I do—there’s no point.
7. Low Self-esteem
8. Fear of failure
SYMPTOMS OF EXAM ANXIETY
The symptoms can range from minor nervousness to a panic attack, which can ruin the test.
But whatever the level of your anxiety, learning to keep yourself calm and managing the
fear of sitting for an examination is what it takes to come out with flying colors.
1. Physical symptoms. Headache, nausea, diarrhea, excessive sweating, shortness of
breath, rapid heartbeat, lightheadedness and feeling faint can all occur. Test anxiety can
lead to a panic attack, which is the abrupt onset of intense fear or discomfort in which
individuals may feel like they are unable to breathe or having a heart attack.
2. Emotional symptoms. Feelings of anger, fear, helplessness and disappointment are
common emotional responses to test anxiety.
3. Behavioral/Cognitive symptoms. Difficulty concentrating , thinking negatively and
comparing yourself to others are common symptoms of test anxiety.
HOW TO PREPARE WELL FOR AN EXAMINATION
Fortunately, there are several methods that you can adopt to reduce your
examination stress, which will not only help you to get higher grades but also improve your
overall mental health.
1. Regular Studies Develop good study habits- ATTEND classes regularly, finish all the
assignments on time, make notes properly and be an actively engaging student in school.
Leave plenty of time to revise so that you don't have to do last minute cramming. Giving
yourself adequate time will help to boost your confidence and reduce any pre-exam stress
as you know you have prepared well. Instead of waiting for the eleventh hour, start
studying as and when the academic year commences. With a good amount of time before
hand, you will certainly feel more relaxed as you have plenty of time to give-in your best.
2. Exercise Matters - It is of paramount importance to maintain mental, psychological and
physical health to ace any exam. Exercising regularly, deep breathing and ‘pranayama’
help in improving one’s cognitive faculties, that results in lesser anxiety and
simultaneously better grades in the tests.
3. Don’t Undermine the Importance of Diet - Be careful about your diet during the
exams. A diet lacking in essential nutrients can put a major dent in your preparations; make
you feel nauseated, SLEEPY OR overstressed during the crucial hours.
4. SLEEP WELL - Adequate sleep is also vital. SLEEPING TOO LESS OR TOO MUCH
CAN ALSO HAMPER YOUR ABILITIES
5. Support - Take short breaks in between and spend some quality time with your family;
share your feelings and state of mind with them. Spending time with the family can turn
out to be a major stress buster.
 6. Set a Study Time: Lastly, drawing up a schedule will help you make the most of your
study time. Set aside a time for your studies and follow it meticulously. Keep it flexible so
that you can make the necessary adjustments.
7. Stay focused: Concentrate on your studies, not others during the examination time.
Avoid talking with other students about the subject before an examination.
8. Use Mnemonics: Mnemonics are the techniques of memorization. You can make chart,
rhymes or phrase to memorize your lessons.
9. Practice Deep Breathing Regularly - Meditation is one of the best medicine that can
reduce your anxiety. Make a habit to Meditate at least 10 minutes per day. It surely
increases your concentration power.
10. Consult Psychologist: If your anxiety becomes uncontrollable, don’t hesitate to
consult a psychologist or therapist. CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is pretty
effective in treating anxiety disorders. It helps to change your thought process and negative
beliefs. Performance or test anxiety is highly treatable so you can get absolutely get a better
result.
HOW TO ATTEMPT THE EXAMINATION IN BEST POSSIBLE WAY
(I) ON THE DAY OF EXAM
1. Get a restful, uninterrupted sleep the night before so you wake up refreshed and
revitalized the day of the exam.
2. Have a healthy breakfast but strictly avoid oily and heavy food
3. Recheck your required stuff (pen, pencil, compass box, eraser, admit card, watch etc)
before leaving home.
4. Take the water bottle along with you to the examination hall.
5. Avoid touching new/left-out topic at the last moment.
6. Aim to reach the examination hall well in time.
7. Avoid being part of Before-exam peer discussions on How well-prepared or unprepared
others are! The classic Tera kitna ho gaya question followed by undue comparisons can be
a complete confidence killer. So Beware !!
8. If feeling tensed, take deep-long breaths and engage in positive self-talk; reminding
yourself that you prepared best to your ability and tell oneself I CAN DO IT
(II) IN THE EXAMINATION HALL
1. First of all, fill the required information on the answer sheet.
2. Read the instructions carefully to figure out if you have a choice of questions, no. of
questions to be attempted etc.
3. Read the question paper thoroughly before u begin writing and mark the questions
under 3 categories: (a) Easy (b) Manageable (c) Difficult
4. Manage your time: This is where you strictly need to stick to the plan:
1. Before you begin, allocate time for each question based on the marks it carries and
difficulty level.
2. If you are not able to complete an answer within planned time-frame, leave some
space and move onto the next question.
3. Always divide time in such a way that you are left with some time at the end to go
back over incomplete answers and revise/recheck.
4. Always try to attempt all the questions.
5. Attempt the Easy questions first, followed by Manageable and Difficult questions at
last. That way you stay secure, calm and confident.
6. Avoid writing too lengthy answer just because you know it well.
5. Presentation:
a. Handwriting should be neat & readable.
b. Instead of very long paragraphs, put your answer point-wise.
c. Wherever possible, illustrate the information via Flowcharts/diagrams etc.
d. Highlight: underline or highlight the main points using pencil / coloured markers but you
should keep it for last spare moments.
(III) TIPS FOR PARENTS:
Encourage your kids! Parents have the ability to address underlying fears that may be
present with test-taking. At a deep level, even subconsciously, a student may fear failure
for a variety of reasons. There could be a fear of looking dumb to friends, of not getting
into the best school, or of not meeting parent’s expectations. A great help is for parents to
reinforce their unconditional support and encouragement to the child. Parents, let your
children know that their grade does not determine their worth. Believe in your child.
Help them get over the myth that Success in exam is a predictor of success in life.
Good marks = Great job.
Poor marks = End of life!!
In short, there are no secrets to success. It is the result of Time Management, Hard work
and learning from mistakes
The Dark Side of India’s Education System: The Silent Suffering of Its
Youth : Sigy George
Abstract
This article delves into the pervasive and concerning issue of the intense pressure on Indian
children to excel academically. Within India’s highly competitive education system, the
pursuit of top grades and entrance exam scores is akin to a high-stakes game, leaving
students grappling with anxiety attacks, low self-confidence, depression, and, tragically,
suicidal tendencies. The proliferation of coaching institutes in places like Kota exacerbates
this pressure, pushing young minds to their breaking point. This article sheds light on the
harrowing consequences of this relentless race for marks and calls for urgent reforms,
emphasizing the need to prioritize holistic development, mental health support, and a
nurturing environment for India’s youth.
Introduction
India, often celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions, has long held a
reputation for placing a premium on education. Parents in the country frequently emphasize
the importance of academic success, hoping to secure a brighter future for their children.
However, this relentless pursuit of academic achievement has given rise to a harrowing
phenomenon—the intense pressure on Indian children to perform in studies. This culture of
cutthroat competition, the relentless race for marks and numbers, and the resulting mental
health issues, including anxiety attacks, low self-confidence, depression, and, tragically,
suicide, is a growing concern.
The burden of expectations, coupled with the perpetual drive to outperform their
peers, places an immense strain on young minds.—
The Rat Race for Academic Excellence
The relentless pursuit of academic excellence in India has often been likened to a high-stakes
game, where the coveted prize is nothing less than a prosperous and successful life. This
intense pursuit starts early, with children as young as five or six years old being thrust into a
fiercely competitive educational environment. As these young minds embark on their
academic journeys, they are immediately faced with the expectation of securing high grades,
a prelude to a life of promise and accomplishment.
From the moment they enter the hallowed halls of school, Indian students find themselves in
the thick of this relentless race for academic success. The pressure steadily mounts as they
progress through various stages of their education, intensifying with each passing year. The
race to secure top marks and be the best in their class becomes a constant presence in their
lives, permeating every facet of their existence.
A significant factor contributing to this relentless pressure is the prevailing emphasis on rote
memorization and standardized examinations. Students are often expected to memorize vast
amounts of information and regurgitate it on exams, leaving them with little room for
genuine understanding or critical thinking. The emphasis on examinations, while necessary
to assess knowledge and skills, has the unintended consequence of reducing education to a
numbers game, where the only measure of success is the score on a piece of paper.
In this environment, students face a formidable challenge. They must not only excel
academically but also navigate a system that can be highly competitive and sometimes
unforgiving. The fear of falling short, of not being able to keep up with the relentless pace or
not achieving the high grades expected by parents, teachers, and society, can create an
immense burden. This fear, in turn, drives many students to push themselves to their limits,
often at the expense of their mental and emotional well-being.
In this high-stress environment, the pursuit of holistic learning and creativity can often be
sacrificed. The narrow focus on exam-oriented education can stifle students’ innate curiosity
and suppress their ability to explore, innovate, and discover. The pressure to conform to a
predetermined path can leave students feeling trapped, unable to pursue their passions or
talents beyond the prescribed curriculum.
The Coaching Institute Epidemic: A Strain on School and Higher Education
In recent years, the educational landscape of India has witnessed a transformation marked by
the proliferation of coaching institutes, notably in cities like Kota, Rajasthan. Kota, often
referred to as the “coaching capital” of India, has earned its reputation as an education hub
with a multitude of coaching centers that cater to students aspiring to clear competitive
examinations, particularly those preparing for engineering and medical entrance exams such
as the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) and the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test
(NEET). The meteoric rise of these coaching institutes and the overwhelming influx of
students from all corners of the country have brought both opportunities and challenges,
contributing significantly to the mounting pressure on Indian children.
The lure of these coaching institutes, many of which boast a record of producing top
performers in competitive exams, is undeniable. They promise a shortcut to success, a
chance to secure a coveted seat in prestigious institutions that can potentially shape one’s
entire future. In response to this promise, students and their families often invest substantial
time, money, and effort to enroll in these institutions, driven by the belief that the pursuit of
academic excellence is the surest path to prosperity.
However, behind the façade of guaranteed success lies a complex reality. The competition
within these coaching centers is fierce, with students vying for limited slots in highly
competitive exams. The rigorous study schedules, grueling hours, and overwhelming
emphasis on exam preparation contribute to the immense stress faced by students. Many
spend years away from their families, living in hostels or rented accommodations, isolated
from their support systems.
Furthermore, the immense pressure to perform in these coaching centers not only affects the
mental and emotional well-being of students but also intrudes into their school education.
With the majority of a student’s time and energy consumed by the coaching curriculum, their
regular school education often takes a back seat. This can result in a one-dimensional
approach to learning, where students are primarily trained to excel in standardized tests
while neglecting the broader, holistic aspects of their education.
The competition fostered by coaching institutes and the obsession with examination results
can create an environment where the joy of learning is diminished. This academic tunnel
vision may deter students from exploring their passions, pursuing extracurricular activities,
or cultivating critical thinking skills, as the focus becomes exclusively centred on securing
higher marks.
The Toll on Mental Health
The pounding pressure to excel in academics and the cutthroat competition prevalent in
India’s educational system exacts a heavy toll on the mental health of the country’s youth.
This unyielding pursuit of success often leads to a myriad of emotional and psychological
challenges, profoundly affecting the well-being of students.
The burden of expectations, coupled with the perpetual drive to outperform their peers,
places an immense strain on young minds. Anxiety attacks are a frequent occurrence, as
students find themselves overwhelmed by the relentless demands placed upon them. The
persistent fear of letting down not only their parents and teachers but also society at large can
instil a paralyzing sense of self-doubt. This fear of failure, or the fear of not living up to the
lofty standards set by their peers and society, further exacerbates the already fragile mental
state of these students.
Feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy are commonplace, as students grapple with the
constant comparison to their peers and the unrealistic expectations set by their surroundings.
The pressure to secure top grades, gain admission to prestigious institutions, and ultimately
achieve societal success can be all-consuming. It often leads to students feeling as though
they are in a never-ending race, and this persistent feeling of inadequacy can lead to a myriad
of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.
Moreover, this mental toll is not confined to the academic arena alone. The lack of balance
between rigorous study schedules and personal life can result in a sense of isolation and a
profound disconnection from their own well-being. The toll on mental health becomes even
more significant when students begin to neglect their physical health and overall emotional
happiness in the relentless pursuit of success.
Depression and suicide
The issue of depression and suicidal tendencies within India’s education system paints a
grim picture of the immense challenges and pressures that students face. The relentless
pursuit of top scores and academic excellence can exact a heavy toll on the mental health of
young minds, pushing them to the brink of despair.
The pressure cooker environment within the education system in India can create a perfect
storm for students. The weight of expectations from parents, teachers, and society as a whole
can be suffocating, leaving many feeling overwhelmed and trapped. As a result, students
often find themselves struggling with profound depression, a condition that robs them of
their joy, energy, and enthusiasm for life.
Isolation is a common companion to this depression, as students may withdraw from their
social circles and retreat into their own world of misery. The fear of disappointing loved
ones or the constant fear of failure can lead to a profound sense of loneliness. The pursuit of
academic excellence, which often involves long hours of solitary study, further exacerbates
this isolation.
The loss of purpose is another profound consequence of this unrelenting pressure. Students,
who once had dreams and aspirations beyond just their academic success, may find
themselves consumed by the singular goal of securing top grades. This myopic focus on
academic achievement can strip them of their sense of purpose, leaving them feeling adrift
and aimless.
Regrettably, some students, in their desperate search for an escape from this never-ending
cycle of academic stress, resort to the ultimate tragedy: suicide. The decision to end one’s
own life is a heart-wrenching testament to the severity of the crisis. It highlights the deep
despair and hopelessness that can overcome even the brightest young minds when they are
pushed beyond their limits.
Kota, a city known for its intense coaching centers and the pursuit of competitive exams, has
gained notoriety for the alarming number of student suicides. This serves as a stark reminder
of the gravity of the problem within the Indian education system. It underscores the urgent
need for comprehensive reforms in the way education is imparted, assessed, and perceived in
the country.
Addressing the issue of depression and suicidal tendencies among students is not just a
matter of concern; it is a moral imperative. It calls for a holistic approach that involves
educators, parents, and society at large. Promoting mental health awareness, offering support
systems, and encouraging a more balanced and well-rounded approach to education can help
alleviate the pressures that drive students to such despair. Ultimately, the well-being of
young minds should be a paramount consideration in the pursuit of academic excellence.
A Call for Change
India’s education system stands at a crucial crossroads, with an urgent need for
transformation to relieve the immense mental and emotional pressure thrust upon its young
learners. In this era of rapid societal and technological changes, a significant shift is
essential. The focus must transition from mechanical rote memorization to a more
compassionate and nurturing approach, prioritizing creativity, critical thinking, and the
holistic development of students. Parents, educators, and institutions must recognize that
genuine success transcends the realm of grades and marks, and the mental and emotional
well-being of students should take center stage.
Redefining Success: The conventional definition of success, primarily linked to academic
performance, has created an environment where students are burdened with the relentless
pursuit of high scores. This one-dimensional view fails to acknowledge the diversity of talent
and potential among students. A pressing need for change is to redefine success,
emphasizing the development of skills, character, and emotional intelligence. Instead of
grading students based solely on exams, assessments should encompass a more
comprehensive evaluation of their overall growth and development.
Nurturing Creativity and Critical Thinking: One of the essential aspects of reform is the
fostering of creativity and critical thinking. The current system often discourages
individuality and innovation in favor of uniformity. Students should be encouraged to think
independently, solve problems creatively, and engage in experiential learning. The
curriculum should include more interactive and project-based learning, providing
opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents.
Prioritizing Mental Health: The relentless pursuit of high academic achievements often
takes a toll on students’ mental health. To alleviate this burden, counseling and mental health
support services must become more accessible and destigmatized. Students should have a
safe and confidential space to express their anxieties, fears, and concerns. Schools and
colleges should provide trained counselors and resources to guide students through the
challenges they face, helping them cope with the pressures of academic life.
Institutional Responsibility: Educational institutions should also take on the responsibility
of monitoring the mental health of their students. Regular check-ins and open
communication channels should be established to ensure that students are provided with the
necessary support and guidance. Furthermore, teachers and staff should be trained to identify
signs of emotional distress and act accordingly, promoting a supportive and compassionate
environment.
Conclusion
India’s education system has long been lauded for its rigor and excellence, but it is essential
to acknowledge the significant toll it takes on the mental health of its youth. The intense
pressure to perform in studies, the cutthroat competition, and the relentless race for marks
and numbers have led to anxiety attacks, low self-confidence, depression, and, tragically,
suicide. It is imperative that society, parents, and educators come together to prioritize the
well-being of students and promote a more balanced, nurturing, and supportive environment
for the country’s young minds. Only then can India truly harness the potential of its youth
and pave the way for a brighter and healthier future.
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Cite this article in APA as: George, S. The dark side of India’s education system: The silent
suffering of its youth. (2023, October 23). Information Matters, Vol. 3, Issue 10.
https://informationmatters.org/2023/10/the-dark-side-of-indias-education-system-the-silent-
suffering-of-its-youth/
Author I am a high school librarian with over 10 years’ experience in several school in
Delhi. I have worked across boards like International Baccalaureate, IGCSE, and
CBSE.