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“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; author of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success


“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


“Anxiety is a veritable epidemic among youth and young adults today, and tests and exams are often a specific area of focus. Jordan and Lovett masterfully guide readers through rich clinical descriptions, a rigorous review of research, available assessment options, and, finally, a comprehensive model for treatment, replete with evidence-based techniques. This authoritative, practical guide is a 'must read' for clinicians and educators who support students with test anxiety.”

—David H. Rosmarin, PhD, ABPP, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School; Founder, Center for Anxiety


“Jordan and Lovett refreshingly treat test anxiety as the beginning of a conversation, not the end. This book breaks down 'test anxiety' into clear, knowable components, as opposed to an amorphous, unavoidable phenomenon hindering test performance. The authors provide turnkey guidance for pairing psychoeducation with hands-on exercises to increase student confidence. Complete with evidence-based interventions, impactful exercises, detailed handouts, and helpful conversation starters, this book will empower mental health professionals and educators to address issues impacting test performance with clarity and confidence.”

—Sheila Akbar, PhD, President and CEO, Signet Education

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Table of Contents

Preface

I. Understanding Test Anxiety

1. The Nature of Test Anxiety

2. Test Anxiety Matters—But Not in the Way Students Think

3. Clinical Assessment

4. Intervention Research

II. Treating Test Anxiety

5. Treatment Overview

6. Learning about Test Anxiety

7. Mastering Bodily Anxiety

8. Focusing the Mind

9. Studying for Success

10. Doing Your Best on Tests

References

Index

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About the Authors

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.

• Author's website

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.

• Author's website
• All titles by Benjamin J. Lovett

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Audience

School psychologists, counselors, and social workers; mental health professionals working with adolescents and young adults; also of interest to learning specialists, tutors, and test preparation professionals.