Effect of Fear of Failure on Teen Decision Making

Abstract

Atychiphobia, also known as fear of failure, is a prevalent dilemma throughout teens. Numerous studies discuss expectations, fear of failure, and decisionmaking as it relates to teens. However, there has been no research that examines the distinctive relationship which exists between those three factors. That is the main objective of this research paper: to examine the extent to which fear of failure specifically caused by expectations influences a teen’s decisionmaking. In order to assess the dynamic correspondence between expectations, fear of failure, and decisionmaking among teens, a mixed quantitative and qualitative survey was conducted using evaluative/descriptive questionnaires. Results concluded that more participants claimed they made more good decisions than bad decisions from that fear of failure. However, almost all admitted that fear of failure has affected them by causing stress, self-doubt, and anxiety. In conclusion, a considerable number of teens are under an illusion that fear of failure is positively affecting them by pushing them to work harder, study more, and achieve better grades. Yet, when analyzing the specific effects fear of failure has had on these teens, it can be assumed that some of the teens are not perceiving the long-term effects of fear of failure. The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which fear of failure due to expectations correlates to teen’s decision making.