Mathematics confidence, interest, and performance: Examining gender patterns and reciprocal relations

• The gender gap in math confidence was larger than the gap in interest and achievement.
• Early math achievement predicted later math attitudes.
• There was a potential reciprocal relation between math achievement and confidence.
• Relations between variables were similar for boys and girls.

With data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Class of 1998–1999, this study explores gender-related patterns in math attitudes and achievement. Following 7040 students from 3rd to 8th grades, we examined gender differences in math confidence, interest, and performance and examined relations among these variables over time. Results indicate that gender differences in math confidence are larger than disparities in interest and achievement in elementary school. Structural equation models show that math performance is a consistent predictor of later confidence and interest, and there is some evidence for a reciprocal relation between confidence and performance in middle school. Relations were generally similar for boys and girls. Results raise questions about the notion that early gender differences in math interest are a driver of disparities in later math outcomes and instead suggest that math interventions for girls should begin early and include attention to math confidence, in addition to achievement.