Mathematics is fundamental to science, technology and everyday life, and is crucial to modern economies (Ofsted, 2021). Despite its importance, many students find mathematics complex and challenging. This blog post discusses factors underlying math blockage, including poor teaching, withdrawal, emotional barriers, lack of foundational knowledge and support at home/school.


Research shows that social-cognitive, socio-cultural and psychological factors contribute to what has been called a ‘block in mathematics’, leading to anxiety, frustration and even neural pain (Skemp, 1986; Slyman, 2014). The main causes of students’ negative attitudes include poor teaching and low engagement. Students often experience mathematics as abstract, boring or irrelevant, especially as it becomes more complex after GCSE (General Certificate Secondary Education) level. Although basic math concepts such as money management are relatable, students struggle to connect advanced topics with real-world applications. This disconnect promotes withdrawal and alienation from the subject.



“While basic math concepts, such as money management, are relatable, students struggle to connect advanced topics with real-world applications.”



In addition to disengagement, poor concentration and a lack of understanding of basic numeracy skills are major problems. Without mastering the fundamental concepts, students in secondary education and beyond face greater challenges understanding more advanced material (Slyman, 2014). The inability to understand early concepts leads to frustration and a cascading effect of confusion and demoralization, which increases as the material becomes more abstract and seemingly irrelevant (Jarvis, 2003; Maloney et al., 2013). Emotional factors, such as fear, panic, and confusion, also play an important role in students’ struggles with math. These emotions are often caused by cognitive challenges and can create a mental ‘block’ (Skemp, 1989; Lewis, 2013; Slyman, 2019). Many students report feeling overwhelmed when faced with math problems, especially when they involve both numbers and letters. Negative emotions hinder their ability to concentrate and process information, making it more difficult to learn (Slyman, 2014). Emotional responses to math problems can also demoralize students and undermine their self-confidence (McLeod, 1992).



‘A lack of support at home can lead to demoralization and contribute to the development of a fixed mindset, further hindering students’ engagement with maths.’



Mindset is another crucial factor in how students approach mathematical challenges. Students with a fixed mindset believe that intelligence is inherent, and difficulty with math is seen as confirmation of their limitations. This often leads to demotivation. In contrast, students with a “growth mindset” understand that effort is the key to improvement and view mistakes as learning opportunities (Dweck, 2007). This mindset promotes resilience, allowing students to persevere through difficulties and ultimately succeed through effort and revision. Parenting and the home environment also have a significant impact on students’ attitudes toward mathematics. A supportive home environment stimulates learning and promotes a positive attitude (Ruyter & Schinkel, 2013). When parents provide homework help and encourage tackling difficult topics, students develop confidence and autonomy in their learning. However, a lack of support at home can lead to demoralization and contribute to the development of a fixed mindset, further hindering their engagement with mathematics.


In conclusion, many students struggle with mathematics due to poor teaching, disengagement, emotional barriers and a lack of fundamental knowledge. These problems are exacerbated by feelings of irrelevance, confusion and anxiety, creating a mental ‘block’. Addressing these challenges requires promoting a growth mindset, building confidence and motivation, and providing support both at home and at school. Encouraging perseverance and providing guidance can help students use math more effectively and prepare them for future success.



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