A Spanish version of the short Mathematics Anxiety Rating Scale (sMARS)

The aim of this study was to adapt and assess the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the sMARS in terms of evidence of validity and reliability of scores. The sMARS was administered to 342 students and, in order to assess convergent and discriminant validity, several subsamples completed a series of related tests. The factorial structure of the sMARS was analyzed by means of a confirmatory factor analysis and results showed that the three-factor structure reported in the original test fits well with the data. Thus, three dimensions were established in the test: math test, numerical task and math course anxiety. The results of this study provide sound evidence that demonstrates the good psychometric properties of the scores of the Spanish version of the sMARS: strong internal consistency, high 7-week test–retest reliability and good convergent/discriminant validity were evident. Overall, this study provides an instrument that allows us to obtain valid and reliable math anxiety measurements. This instrument may be a useful tool for educators and psychologists interested in identifying individuals that may have a low level of math mastery because of their anxiety.

► The psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the sMARS are demonstrated.
► Math anxiety can be reliably measured by the Spanish version of the sMARS.
► Math anxiety can be validly measured by the Spanish version of the sMARS.
► The Spanish sMARS can measure math test, numerical task and math course anxiety.