What is math trauma?

Math trauma refers to the emotional and psychological distress associated with negative experiences in learning mathematics. This trauma can arise from situations where individuals felt publicly humiliated or deemed incapable during math classes, particularly during childhood. Such negative experiences can lead to long-lasting impacts, including a strong fear or aversion to engaging with mathematical tasks or learning.

Edward Frenkel discussed this on the Lex Fridman Podcast, describing how traumatic experiences in math education can leave many people feeling terrified even by simple mathematical tasks like calculating a tip. This fear recalls memories of being called out in class and failing to solve problems, leaving them feeling ashamed and incompetent. Frenkel believes that these experiences can contribute to a broader sense of alienation and lack of belonging in society 1.