Phenomenological analysis of Anxiety in Mathematics From the perspective of students

Learning math provides a suitable context to the growth of analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. In regard to the role of perceptions and beliefs of students in their academic performances, the need to explain the "live experiences" of students seems to be essential. Therefore, due to the presence of anxiety in math lesson rather than others, and as a tangible and serious obstacle in the development of education, this study was done with the objective representation and "lived experiences" of students to the concept of anxiety in mathematics. Purposing sampling was used to select 12 students (16-18 years old). Semi- structured interviews were the main data collection technique. Data were analyzed based on Colaizzi's strategy. Health and credibility findings were reviewed and approved on four criteria "real value, applicability, consistency and being based on facts". Data analysis led to the extraction of 102 primary codes, 19 subthemes and 7 main themes including "beliefs and attitudes ","ignorance and lack of knowledge", "anxiety", "judgment", "and the role of learning environment "," the role of both teachers and parents". The results could provide a clear image from the perspective of students who have experienced the phenomenon of math anxiety The student's experience of anxiety shows that their painful feelings have affected their mental processes and that they have also been prevented from operating and functioning correctly and properly. The findings show that the intensification of this phenomenon causes formation of weakness and also strengthens this feeling learned helplessness and reduces self confidence in students and endangers their health and academic achievements.