can homework give you stress

The Truth About Homework Stress: What Parents & Students Need to Know

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published on:

December 21, 2023

Updated on:

June 21, 2024

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Homework is generally given out to ensure that students take time to review and remember the days lessons. It can help improve on a student’s general performance and enhance traits like self-discipline and independent problem solving.

Parents are able to see what their children are doing in school, while also helping teachers determine how well the lesson material is being learned. Homework is quite beneficial when used the right way and can improve student performance.

This well intentioned practice can turn sour if it’s not handled the right way. Studies show that if a student is inundated with too much homework, not only do they get lower scores, but they are more likely to get stressed.

The age at which homework stress is affecting students is getting lower, some even as low as kindergarten. Makes you wonder what could a five year old possibly need to review as homework?

One of the speculated reasons for this stress is that the complexity of what a student is expected to learn is increasing, while the breaks for working out excess energy are reduced. Students are getting significantly more homework than recommended by the education leaders, some even nearly three times more.

To make matters worse, teachers may give homework that is both time consuming and will keep students busy while being totally non-productive.

Remedial work like telling students to copy notes word for word from their text books will do nothing to improve their grades or help them progress. It just adds unnecessary stress.

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Effects of homework stress at home

Both parents and students tend to get stressed out at the beginning of a new school year due to the impending arrival of homework.

Nightly battles centered on finishing assignments are a household routine in houses with students.

Research has found that too much homework can negatively affect children. In creating a lack of balance between play time and time spent doing homework, a child can get headaches, sleep deprivation or even ulcers.

And homework stress doesn’t just impact grade schoolers. College students are also affected, and the stress is affecting their academic performance.

homework stress college students statistics

Even the parent’s confidence in their abilities to help their children with homework suffers due increasing stress levels in the household.

Fights and conflict over homework are more likely in families where parents do not have at least a college degree. When the child needs assistance, they have to turn to their older siblings who might already be bombarded with their own homework.

Parents who have a college degree feel more confident in approaching the school and discussing the appropriate amount of school work.

“It seems that homework being assigned discriminates against parents who don’t have college degree, parents who have English as their second language and against parents who are poor.” Said Stephanie Donaldson Pressman, the contributing editor of the study and clinical director of the New England Center for Pediatric Psychology.

With all the stress associated with homework, it’s not surprising that some parents have opted not to let their children do homework. Parents that have instituted a no-homework policy have stated that it has taken a lot of the stress out of their evenings.

The recommended amount homework

The standard endorsed by the National Education Association is called the “10 minute rule”; 10 minutes per grade level per night. This recommendation was made after a number of studies were done on the effects of too much homework on families.

The 10 minute rule basically means 10 minutes of homework in the first grade, 20 minute for the second grade all the way up to 120 minutes for senior year in high school. Note that no homework is endorsed in classes under the first grade.

Parents reported first graders were spending around half an hour on homework each night, and kindergarteners spent 25 minutes a night on assignments according to a study carried out by Brown University.

Making a five year old sit still for half an hour is very difficult as they are at the age where they just want to move around and play.

A child who is exposed to 4-5 hours of homework after school is less likely to find the time to go out and play with their friends, which leads to accumulation of stress energy in the body.

Their social life also suffers because between the time spent at school and doing homework, a child will hardly have the time to pursue hobbies. They may also develop a negative attitude towards learning.

The research highlighted that 56% of students consider homework a primary source of stress.

And if you’re curious how the U.S stacks up against other countries in regards to how much time children spend on homework, it’s pretty high on the list .

countries where kids do the most homework

Signs to look out for on a student that has homework stress

Since not every student is affected by homework stress in the same way, it’s important to be aware of some of the signs your child might be mentally drained from too much homework.

Here are some common signs of homework stress:

Sleep disturbances
Frequent stomachaches and headaches
Decreased appetite or changed eating habits
New or recurring fears
Not able to relax
Regressing to behavior they had when younger
Bursts of anger crying or whining
Becoming withdrawn while others may become clingy
Drastic changes in academic performance
Having trouble concentrating or completing homework
Constantly complains about their ability to do homework

If you’re a parent and notice any of these signs in your child, step in to find out what’s going on and if homework is the source of their stress.

If you’re a student, pay attention if you start experiencing any of these symptoms as a result of your homework load. Don’t be afraid to ask your teacher or parents for help if the stress of homework becomes too much for you.

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What parents do wrong when it comes to homework stress

Most parents push their children to do more and be more, without considering the damage being done by this kind of pressure.

Some think that homework brought home is always something the children can deal with on their own. If the child cannot handle their homework then these parents get angry and make the child feel stupid.

This may lead to more arguing and increased dislike of homework in the household. Ultimately the child develops an even worse attitude towards homework.

Another common mistake parents make is never questioning the amount of homework their children get, or how much time they spend on it. It’s easy to just assume whatever the teacher assigned is adequate, but as we mentioned earlier, that’s not always the case.

Be proactive and involved with your child’s homework. If you notice they’re spending hours every night on homework, ask them about it. Just because they don’t complain doesn’t mean there isn’t a problem.

How can parents help?

While every parent wants their child to become successful and achieve the very best, it’s important to pull back on the mounting pressure and remember that they’re still just kids. They need time out to release their stress and connect with other children.
Many children may be afraid to admit that they’re overwhelmed by homework because they might be misconstrued as failures. The best thing a parent can do is make home a safe place for children to express themselves freely. You can do this by lending a listening ear and not judging your kids.
Parents can also take the initiative to let the school know that they’re unhappy with the amount of homework being given. Even if you don’t feel comfortable complaining, you can approach the school through the parent-teacher association available and request your representative to plead your case.
It may not be all the subjects that are causing your child to get stressed. Parents should find out if there is a specific subject of homework that is causing stress. You could also consult with other parents to see what they can do to fix the situation. It may be the amount or the content that causes stress, so the first step is identifying the problem.
Work with your child to create a schedule for getting homework done on time. You can set a specific period of time for homework, and schedule time for other activities too. Strike a balance between work and play.
Understanding that your child is stressed about homework doesn’t mean you have to allow them not to try. Let them sit down and work on it as much as they’re able to, and recruit help from the older siblings or a neighbor if possible.
Check out these resources to help your child with their homework .

The main idea here is to not abolish homework completely, but to review the amount and quality of homework being given out. Stress, depression and lower grades are the last things parents want for their children.

The schools and parents need to work together to find a solution to this obvious problem.

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About the author

Homework Stress: The Hidden Toll on Students and Its Impact

Pencils snap, tears fall, and midnight oil burns as students nationwide grapple with an invisible epidemic that’s turning education into a battleground of anxiety and exhaustion. This silent struggle, rooted in the seemingly innocuous practice of assigning homework, has become a growing concern for educators, parents, and students alike. While homework has long been considered a cornerstone of academic success, designed to reinforce classroom learning and develop independent study skills, its role in modern education is increasingly scrutinized.

The rising awareness of stress caused by homework has sparked debates about its efficacy and impact on student well-being. As more research emerges on the detrimental effects of excessive academic pressure, it’s becoming clear that the traditional approach to homework may be doing more harm than good. The importance of addressing homework stress cannot be overstated, as it directly affects not only academic performance but also the physical and mental health of our youth.

Understanding the Stress-Homework Connection

To fully grasp the impact of homework on student stress levels, it’s crucial to first understand what stress is and how it affects young learners. Stress is the body’s response to any demand or challenge, triggering a cascade of physiological and psychological reactions. For students, this can manifest as anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and even physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches.

Homework contributes to student stress levels in various ways. The pressure to complete assignments on time, often while juggling multiple subjects and extracurricular activities, can be overwhelming. The Alarming Reality: What Percent of Students Are Stressed by Homework? reveals that a significant portion of students experience stress directly related to their homework load. This stress can lead to a vicious cycle where anxiety about homework leads to procrastination, which in turn increases stress as deadlines loom closer.

The cycle of homework and stress is particularly insidious because it can become self-perpetuating. As students become more stressed, their ability to focus and complete assignments efficiently diminishes, leading to longer hours spent on homework and less time for relaxation and sleep. This, in turn, exacerbates stress levels, creating a downward spiral that can be difficult to break.

Factors That Make Homework a Source of Stress

Several key factors contribute to making homework a significant source of stress for students. One of the primary challenges is time management. Many students struggle to balance their homework load with other responsibilities and activities, leading to feelings of being overwhelmed and constantly behind.

The pressure to perform and maintain high grades is another major stressor. In an increasingly competitive academic environment, students often feel that their entire future hinges on their ability to excel in every assignment. This pressure can come from parents, teachers, or the students themselves, creating a constant state of anxiety about academic performance.

Balancing homework with extracurricular activities presents another layer of complexity. Many students participate in sports, clubs, or part-time jobs, which are important for their personal development and college applications. However, these activities can significantly reduce the time available for homework, leading to late nights and increased stress.

Perhaps one of the most concerning factors is the lack of sleep that often results from heavy homework loads. The Ultimate Guide to Managing Stress in High School: Causes, Effects, and Proven Solutions highlights how insufficient sleep can dramatically impact stress levels and overall well-being. When students sacrifice sleep to complete homework, they become trapped in a cycle of fatigue and stress that can have serious long-term consequences.

The Physical and Mental Impact of Homework Stress

The stress caused by homework can have profound effects on both the physical and mental health of students. Physically, stressed students may experience a range of symptoms including headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues. These symptoms can interfere with daily life and academic performance, creating a feedback loop of increased stress and worsening physical health.

Mental health concerns related to homework pressure are equally alarming. The Hidden Toll: Academic Pressure and Its Impact on Student Mental Health explores how excessive academic demands can lead to anxiety, depression, and burnout among students. The constant worry about assignments and grades can erode self-esteem and lead to a negative self-image, particularly when students feel they can’t meet expectations.

The long-term effects of chronic homework stress are particularly concerning. Prolonged exposure to high levels of stress during formative years can have lasting impacts on mental health, potentially leading to the development of anxiety disorders or depression in adulthood. Additionally, the habits formed during these stressful periods, such as poor sleep patterns or unhealthy coping mechanisms, can persist long after formal education has ended.

Why Different Types of Homework Cause Varying Levels of Stress

Not all homework is created equal when it comes to causing stress. The nature and quality of assignments play a significant role in determining their impact on student well-being. One key distinction is between busywork and meaningful assignments. Busywork, which often involves repetitive tasks with little educational value, can be particularly frustrating for students who recognize its lack of purpose. In contrast, meaningful assignments that challenge students to think critically and apply their knowledge in new ways can be engaging and less stressful, despite requiring more effort.

Subject-specific stress factors also come into play. Students may experience more stress with subjects they find challenging or less interesting. For example, a student who excels in literature might find math homework particularly stressful, not just because of the content difficulty but also due to anxiety about maintaining their overall GPA.

The role of difficulty and comprehension in homework stress cannot be overstated. When students struggle to understand the material, homework becomes a daunting task rather than an opportunity for learning and reinforcement. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and frustration, significantly increasing stress levels. The Dark Side of Homework: Why It’s Harmful and What the Statistics Say delves deeper into how poorly designed or excessively difficult homework can negatively impact students.

Strategies to Reduce Homework-Related Stress

While the challenges of homework-related stress are significant, there are strategies that students, parents, and educators can employ to mitigate its impact. Effective time management techniques are crucial in reducing stress levels. Students can benefit from learning to prioritize tasks, break large assignments into smaller, manageable chunks, and use tools like planners or digital apps to keep track of deadlines.

Creating a balanced homework schedule is another key strategy. This involves setting aside specific times for homework while also ensuring there’s time for relaxation, physical activity, and sleep. Managing Stress in School: A Comprehensive Guide for Students and Parents offers valuable insights into creating a healthy balance between academic responsibilities and personal well-being.

Seeking help and utilizing available resources is essential for students feeling overwhelmed. This can include asking teachers for clarification, working with tutors, or forming study groups with peers. Many schools also offer academic support services that students can take advantage of to manage their workload more effectively.

Mindfulness and stress-reduction practices can be powerful tools for students grappling with homework stress. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help students manage anxiety and improve focus. How Can Schools Help Students with Stress: Comprehensive Strategies for a Healthier Learning Environment explores how educational institutions can incorporate these practices into the school day to support student well-being.

The Importance of Addressing Homework Stress in Education

As we’ve explored the multifaceted ways in which homework causes stress and its far-reaching impacts on students, it becomes clear that addressing this issue is crucial for the future of education. The traditional approach to homework, which often prioritizes quantity over quality, needs to be reevaluated in light of what we now know about its effects on student well-being.

Is Homework Necessary? Examining the Debate and Its Impact on Student Well-being raises important questions about the role of homework in modern education. While homework can have benefits when designed and assigned thoughtfully, its potential to cause significant stress and negatively impact mental health cannot be ignored.

Educators, parents, and policymakers must work together to find a balance that promotes learning without sacrificing student well-being. This may involve rethinking homework policies, focusing on quality over quantity, and ensuring that assignments are meaningful and tailored to individual student needs.

The Alarming Rise of Stress in Students: Causes, Effects, and Coping Strategies underscores the urgency of addressing academic stress holistically. By recognizing homework as a significant contributor to student stress, we can take steps to create a more supportive and effective educational environment.

A Call to Action

Addressing homework-related stress requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders in education. Students can take an active role in managing their stress by employing time management strategies, seeking help when needed, and practicing self-care. Parents can support their children by creating a conducive environment for studying, helping to establish healthy routines, and advocating for their children’s well-being with educators.

Educators and school administrators have a crucial role to play in reevaluating homework policies and practices. This may involve professional development to help teachers design more effective and less stressful assignments, implementing limits on homework time, and incorporating stress management techniques into the curriculum.

The Alarming Reality: What Percent of Students Are Stressed by School? serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of academic stress and the need for systemic change. By working together to address homework stress, we can create an educational system that nurtures not only academic achievement but also the overall well-being and future success of our students.

In conclusion, while homework remains a part of the educational landscape, its impact on student stress levels cannot be ignored. By understanding the stress-homework connection, recognizing the factors that contribute to homework stress, and implementing strategies to mitigate its effects, we can work towards a more balanced and effective approach to education. The goal should be to foster a love of learning and personal growth, rather than perpetuating a cycle of stress and burnout. As we move forward, let us commit to creating an educational environment where students can thrive academically, emotionally, and physically, free from the overwhelming burden of homework-related stress.

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