LICENSURE EXAMINATION – How do board exams affect mental health and stress levels of the students or applicants?
Licensure exams are a critical component of various professions, ensuring that individuals possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and qualifications to practice in their chosen fields.
Licensure exams are standardized tests, meaning that all candidates are evaluated on the same set of criteria, regardless of their educational background or training.
These exams come in various formats, depending on the profession. They may include written examinations, practical tests, oral assessments, or a combination of these, ensuring that candidates can demonstrate their knowledge and skills effectively.
However, the pressure and anxiety associated with board exams can have a significant impact on students’ stress levels and mental health. Licensure exams create a pressure cooker environment for aspiring professional.
The weight of parental and societal expectations can be overwhelming. Fear of failing and the thought of disappointing loved ones can cause intense anxiety and stress, which can have a negative impact on mental health.
Here are some effects of board exams to the students:
Physical and Emotional Stress
The stress experienced during board exams can manifest in various physical and emotional symptoms.
Impact on Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem, in turn, can create the fear of failure, creating a vicious cycle that further adds to the stress.
Mental Health Support
Schools should offer counseling and mental health services to help students cope with anxiety and stress.
Encourage Open Conversations
Schools, parents, and educators should create an environment where students can openly discuss their fears and anxieties.
Redefining Success
Encouraging development and recognizing individual talents and passions can reduce the overwhelming focus on board exams.
Reducing Weight of Exams
Some education systems are now exploring alternative assessment methods to reduce the pressure associated with high-stakes board exams.
While licensure exams are a necessary part of the education system, it’s important to acknowledge and address their impact on students’ mental health.
