Overcoming Test Anxiety

Alex Jordan, PhD, is a psychologist in private practice in Belmont, Massachusetts, and at McLean Hospital, and is Lecturer in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He treats a wide range of complex psychiatric conditions, with a specialty in anxiety disorders. Dr. Jordan has over 40 publications and has conducted federally funded research. He has taught students ranging from high school to postdoctoral, has provided leadership coaching to C-level Fortune 100 executives, and has been retained as an expert consultant in major civil litigation.Benjamin J. Lovett, PhD, is Professor of Psychology and Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. Most of his research and clinical/consulting work revolves around testing and assessment, including the nature and management of test anxiety. Dr. Lovett has over 100 publications, including several books. He works with schools and testing agencies on assessment and disability issues and provides test anxiety treatment.

"As a teacher and researcher, I have seen how fears about academic performance can undermine students’ performance and well-being. Jordan and Lovett offer science-backed strategies that not only ease students’ test anxiety, but can actually change their mindsets about testing and stress. Students learn to replace avoidance and self-criticism with courage and a desire for improvement, as they master their fear, focus their efforts, and perform under pressure. This book is a valuable aid for clinicians and educators."--Carol S. Dweck, PhD, Lewis and Virginia Eaton Professor of Psychology, Stanford University“This book fills an important need by highlighting the prevalence of test anxiety and the challenges that it poses to students. Jordan and Lovett are scholars who have made major contributions to our understanding of test anxiety. In an accessible and engaging style, the book seamlessly integrates available assessment and treatment options. This is an authoritative, up-to-date guide."--Sybille Bruun Moss, PhD, Director of Student Success Services, The Elisabeth Morrow School, Englewood, New Jersey-

• PrefaceI. Understanding Test Anxiety1. The Nature of Test Anxiety2. Test Anxiety Matters--But Not in the Way Students Think3. Clinical Assessment4. Intervention ResearchII. Treating Test Anxiety5. Treatment Overview6. Learning about Test Anxiety7. Mastering Bodily Anxiety8. Focusing the Mind9. Studying for Success10. Doing Your Best on TestsReferencesIndex