Examining Coping Mechanisms for Managing Academic Stress and Fear of Failure to Enhance Students’ Mathematics Performance

Abstract

This study examined the coping mechanisms used by Grade 10 students in managing stress and fear of failure, with the goal of enhancing their academic performance in Mathematics at Don Vicente Rama Memorial National High School, Division of Cebu City, during the school year 2023–2024. The study employed a descriptive-correlational research design and involved 226 randomly selected students. Data were analyzed using frequency count, percentage, weighted mean, and Pearson’s r. Findings revealed that most respondents were female (134 out of 226) and the majority were 16 years old (113 out of 226). In terms of family background, most parents were high school graduates, and the majority of households had a monthly income of ₱10,000.00 and below. Results further showed that students experienced a high level of fear of failure, with an overall weighted mean of 3.60, while their coping strategies were moderately utilized. In terms of academic performance, most respondents fell within the proficient level, earning grades between 85 and 89. Statistical analysis indicated no significant relationship between academic stress, coping strategies, and students’ performance in Mathematics. Similarly, no significant relationship was found between fear of failure, coping strategies, and academic performance. Based on these results, the study strongly recommends the adoption of the proposed action plan to further improve students’ performance in Mathematics.