National Evaluation Series (NES) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Test

In Maslow's hierarchy of needs, which factor could hinder a student's learning in math?

1. Poor self-esteem

2. Contemplating spiritual beliefs

3. Getting into an argument with a friend

4. Feeling regret over past choices

The correct answer is: Getting into an argument with a friend

In Maslow's hierarchy of needs, the factor that most closely aligns with hindering a student's learning in math is poor self-esteem. Self-esteem is a fundamental aspect of an individual's psychological needs, which is situated above physiological and safety needs in the hierarchy. When a student has poor self-esteem, they may feel incapable or unworthy, leading to anxiety and lack of confidence in their abilities. This can manifest in math performance as fear of failure, reluctance to participate, or avoidance of challenging tasks. The other factors, while potentially impactful, do not directly relate to a broader psychological framework that affects learning. Contemplating spiritual beliefs and feelings of regret over past choices can distract a student, but they typically don't do as much to undermine confidence and ability directly. An argument with a friend may disrupt focus temporarily, but it usually does not affect a student's overall self-worth or sense of competence in the same deep-rooted way that poor self-esteem does. All these dimensions can contribute to distraction or emotional state, but poor self-esteem is more directly linked to a decrease in functional learning and confidence in academic abilities, particularly in a subject like math that often requires a positive mindset to tackle successfully.