Association of Autosuggestion and Academic Performance & Stress Marker in Secondary School Students during Exams: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Introduction: Auto suggestions are a set of specific techniques which are self-administered for improving state of mind, self-confidence and the ability to cope with problems.Objective of the study was to assess the autosuggestion will improve academic performance and reduces stress in Secondary school students during exams.

Methods: This interventional study was conducted on 58 secondary school students for a period of one year. Their perception of stress during examination were analyzed six months before the exam using a validated questionnaire, Perceived stress score (PSS). Saliva was collected just before the exam for estimating cortisol levels, which was measured using ELISA.Statistical analysis was carried out using graph pad instat version 3. Comparison of marks and stress perception scores was done using Wilcoxon rank signed test,association of stress perception scores and cortisol levels with students’ academic performance was by Chi square test,correlations by Spearman correlation test.

Results: The PSS in students before and after autosuggestion was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.0002). The grades obtained before and after autosuggestion was extremely significant (p  <0.0001). There was no statistically significant association between cortisol levels and marks (p=0.4477), chi square statistics was 0.5766.

Conclusion: In our study the stress scores reduced and the academic grades improved after autosuggestion. Higher cortisol levels showed 50% less chance of getting good grades suggesting the association of academic performance and the stress marker. Effective practice of autosuggestion showed 85% higher chance of lowering the stress scale.