Understanding Academic Pressure
Academic pressure is defined as tension or discomfort that students experience in the learning process due to excessive demands from external factors. This is a constant challenge for students who are continually stressed by the need to satisfy teachers, meet parental expectations, compete with their peers, and maintain a good academic performance.
Nigerian students face significant stress due to the demands of their academics. Such demands often include rigorous examinations, competitive university admissions, high expectations and parental pressures. This burden may also be worsened by the poor socio-economic situations of many families in the country. Therefore, it is important to understand the effects of academic pressure on Nigerian students and develop useful coping strategies.
Causes of Academic Pressure
There are many internal and external factors that contribute to academic pressure. Let us take a look at some common causes here:
● Unhealthy peer competition
● Parental Pressure
● High expectations of teachers
● Overwhelming coursework
● Fear of failure
Effects of Academic Pressure
Undue academic pressure makes the learning process difficult and unenjoyable. The overall health and well-being of students are also negatively affected. Some common effects of academic pressure include:
● Poor mental health
The mental health of students may suffer greatly from academic pressure. Common conditions include anxiety, depression and burnout.
● Problematic behaviour
Research has shown that parents and teachers have high expectations of good students, leading to higher academic pressure. On the other hand, poor students may face rejection, fear and inferiority. In both cases, pressure may lead to negative behaviours such as rebellion or aggression.
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● Social isolation
Students often miss out on building relationships with their friends because they are constantly trying to catch up with their academic workload. They may also cut down on extracurriculars. In the long-term, such students may struggle with poor social interactions and low social support.
● Poor physical health
Students who are struggling academically may suffer from sleep deprivation or malnutrition. Some may also take up negative coping mechanisms such as drug abuse and alcoholism which affect their physical health.
Coping with Academic Stress
Now that you have a better understanding of what academic pressure is all about and its negative effects, here are some common coping strategies:
● Time management
Time management is a major coping strategy that students must develop. A common technique is the use of a pomodoro timer that allows you to take short breaks in between study sessions. You can also use a study app to keep track of study schedules.
Additionally, creating a plan for priority tasks and when they should be performed can help you make the best use of your time and prevent overload.
● Parental and institutional support
Parents and teachers can provide social support for their children. Parents should encourage their children and provide them with resources required for their academic work.
Institutional support may also come from teachers who provide guidance and academic resources for students’ learning. Schools may also provide counselling services so students can seek help when they have academic challenges.
● Diversifying methods of assessments
The emphasis on high grades in test-based assessments may cause unhealthy competition and academic pressure. Instead, schools should develop continuous assessments that include assignments and group projects.
Final Words
Although, many believe that academic pressure contributes to good academic performance of students, students may suffer significantly from excessive demands and expectations from parents, teachers and peers. Additionally, there is low support for students experiencing academic challenges.
When not managed appropriately, students may suffer damages to their physical and mental health. By understanding the effects of academic pressure and providing support, parents and teachers can help minimize the risk in students.
Overall, students should learn to maintain balance between academic rigour and personal well-being.
