Predictors of performance in a real-life statistics examination depend on the individual cortisol profile

In standardized stress conditions, cortisol responders and non-responders differ in their memory performance. To evaluate this association in a real-life situation, we investigated whether the individual cortisol response profile predicts the performance in an examination in statistics in 112 healthy participants. In addition, basic arithmetic abilities as well as mathematics anxiety were evaluated. We collected a baseline saliva sample before the examination day as well as pre- and post-examination samples. Participants were attributed to one of four cortisol profiles depending on their cortisol change in anticipation of the examination. 52% of participants showed an increase (A-profile) and 43% a decrease (D-profile) in cortisol before the examination. Cortisol changes did not predict performance in the examination. However, only in A-profile individuals, mathematics anxiety and arithmetic abilities predicted statistics performance. We conclude that in real-life situations, cortisol facilitates the influence of mathematics anxiety and mathematical abilities on examination performance.

Research highlights▶ A real life statistics examination reveals distinct cortisol responses. ▶ Cortisol levels increase (A-profile) or decrease in anticipation of the examination. ▶ Cortisol levels do not correlate with statistics performance. ▶ Mathematics anxiety and mathematical abilities predict statistics performance only in A-profile.