Answer:
Test anxiety, or the experience of excessive worry or fear in test situations, can occur not only before exams but also during exams and even after exams. While the intensity may vary across these different stages, individuals with test anxiety may experience a range of symptoms throughout the entire testing process. Here are a few reasons why test anxiety can manifest at various stages:
1. Anticipation: Test anxiety often begins before exams during the anticipation phase. Students may worry about their performance, fear the consequences of failure, or feel overwhelmed by the expectations placed on them. This pre-exam anxiety can arise days or weeks in advance.
2. During exams: Test anxiety can also occur during the actual test. The pressure to perform well, time constraints, and the unfamiliar environment can heighten anxiety symptoms. This may lead to difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, physical discomfort, or a feeling of being overwhelmed.
3. After exams: Test anxiety may persist even after the exam has ended. Individuals may ruminate over their performance, engage in negative self-talk, or constantly worry about the results. The fear of receiving a low score or not meeting expectations can continue to trigger anxiety.