The psychologist told about the dangers of overprotection of a child before exams

Parental support can significantly reduce teenagers' anxiety during exams, but excessive involvement and overprotection can have the opposite effect and increase stress. Olga Kushnareva, a family psychologist and psychotherapist, told Izvestia on April 15 how to help her child during this period.

"When a teenager feels that he is appreciated not for grades, but just like that, the exam ceases to seem like a threat. But excessive parental involvement can have the opposite effect and increase anxiety," the specialist noted.

According to her, overprotection, constant monitoring and increased attention to preparation create a child's sense of anxiety, not support. Devaluing or frightening statements have a particularly negative effect, which increase fear and form so-called catastrophic thinking.

Final motivation: universities have approved the lists of the Unified State Exam according to the new rules

Changes in entrance exams are causing anxiety and discontent among students and their parents

Kushnareva stressed that the widespread opinion about the need for high levels of stress for successful preparation is erroneous. Moderate anxiety can really mobilize, but excessive stress reduces concentration and interferes with the assimilation of information.

The expert added that teenagers tend to overestimate the importance of exams due to age-related perception. For them, one test can be perceived as a decisive factor for the future, which increases the emotional burden.

To reduce anxiety, the specialist recommended following basic routine habits. In particular, adequate sleep, regular physical activity and a clear division of time for study and rest help to stabilize the emotional state. According to Kushnareva, the calm and supportive attitude of parents plays a key role. The simple feeling that a child is accepted regardless of the outcome contributes to more effective preparation and reduces stress levels.

On March 30, Maria Todorova, a child psychologist and consultant on children's education, told Izvestia that the introduction of a formalized assessment of behavior in the school system requires a special approach that takes into account not only discipline, but also the psychological aspect. According to her, the assessment of behavior remains subjective, since the interpretation of criteria depends on the personality of the teacher, his expectations and the level of professional training.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.