Stress and Learning in the Higher School Certificate.

The paper reports the results of a study conducted in one Sydney (Australia) comprehensive high school. Sixty-seven Year 12 and 62 Year 11 students completed a questionnaire package measuring stress responses, goals, and academic self-efficacy. Findings show that 31% of the Year 12 and 25% of the Year 11 students reported symptoms of anxiety, depression, or both, which fell outside the normal range. More females than males reported the symptoms. The goals that students held for the Higher School Certificate were found to be predominately performance rather than mastery oriented. Performance-avoidance goals were significantly and positively correlated with stress responses. Self-efficacy was significantly and positively correlated with mastery. (Contains 15 references.) (JDM)