Mathematics Self-Beliefs and Participation in Mathematics-Related Activities

This chapter examines several ways in which students’ beliefs in their own mathematics skills manifest themselves: self-efficacy (the extent to which students believe in their own ability to solve specific mathematics tasks), self-concept (students’ beliefs in their own mathematics abilities), anxiety (feelings of helplessness and stress when dealing with mathematics), students’ engagement in mathematics activities at and outside school, and students’ intentions to pursue mathematics-related studies or careers in the future. These are analysed in relation to mathematics performance, gender and socio-economic status. Trends in students’ mathematics selfbeliefs since 2003 are also examined.