Theory and Measurement of Test Anxiety as a Situation-Specific Trait

Abstract

Attacked by proponents of situationism and interactionism, the trait model of personality has begun to change in its appearance. Specific reference to situational variables in the design of trait tests provides a useful step in the refinement of trait theory. In anxiety research, such tests have been classified as situation-specific trait anxiety measures (Spielberger et al., 1976; Spielber-ger & Vagg, 1987). They assess individual differences in the disposition to react with anxiety to selected stressful situations, such as examinations or giving speeches.