Study Finds Mothers' Math Anxiety Impacts Children's Skills

A recent study conducted in the UK indicates that approximately 60% of individuals struggle with math skills, revealing a significant gender gap. The findings suggest that mothers' anxiety regarding mathematics adversely affects their children's confidence and numerical abilities from a young age.

Gender Disparity in Math Proficiency

The research, which surveyed 10,000 participants, found that 58% exhibited low or very low math proficiency, with women at 65% compared to 50% of men.

Furthermore, 27% of women received a "very low" score, while only 16% of men did, underscoring the notable differences in numerical skills between genders.

Influence of Mothers' Anxiety on Children

The study revealed that mothers' confidence in assisting with homework is lower than that of fathers, with 69% of mothers feeling capable compared to 83% of fathers. Researchers noted that the effects of this anxiety on girls begin as early as age eight, with the gap widening as they mature.

Richmond Project Aims to Build Confidence

This research is part of the Richmond Project, initiated by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murthy, to foster confidence in mathematical skills. Sunak highlighted that proficiency in math is essential for both professional and everyday scenarios, while Murthy emphasized the need to prevent the transmission of math anxiety from mothers to their children to cultivate future skills.

Suggestions for Enhancing Children's Math Skills

Murthy encouraged parents to incorporate mathematics into everyday activities, such as cooking, solving puzzles, and managing expenses, to bolster children's numerical skills and self-assurance from an early age.