In terms of intelligence assessments, how might children with test anxiety perform?

Children with test anxiety are likely to underperform on intelligence assessments due to the high levels of stress and pressure they experience in testing situations. Test anxiety can lead to various negative effects, such as difficulties with concentration, reduced working memory capacity, and increased physical symptoms of distress, such as sweating or a racing heartbeat. These factors can impede their ability to think clearly and effectively demonstrate their true knowledge and cognitive abilities during assessments.

When faced with anxiety, the child's focus may shift from the task at hand to their worries about performance, which can hinder their ability to recall information, solve problems, or engage in critical thinking—all essential components of intelligence assessments. This performance under pressure contrasts with the notion that anxiety might enhance performance or remain neutral, reinforcing the idea that anxiety can be a significant barrier to showcasing true intelligence in standardized testing environments.