Perceptions of Academic Achievement Increases Depressive Symptoms Among Pre-Adolescent School Children Following High Stakes Exit Examinations While Gender Decreases Symptoms of Anxiety

The impact of exam stress on depression and anxiety, and the modifying roles of school type, age, gender and achievement perceptions were examined among 421 grade six students in Jamaica. Exam stress increased depression after the exam, but symptoms of anxiety fell. Gender and perceptions of achievement altered these relationships.