Teachers’ reported responses to children’s anxiety in New Zealand primary schools

Anxiety is a prevalent mental health concern for youth worldwide, yet responses to children’s anxiety in New Zealand (NZ) primary schools remain understudied. This study surveyed 540 teachers using the Teachers’ Responses to Anxiety in Children (TRAC) questionnaire. Results showed that experienced teachers were less likely to use sanctions. Female teachers were more likely to use overprotection and avoidance reinforcement, while male teachers were more likely to use sanctions. Each additional year teaching in a single-cell classroom was associated with increased use of overprotection and avoidance reinforcement responses and decreased use of rewards and sanctions. Recognising teaching as an ethical profession, this research emphasises that teachers do not intentionally respond in harmful ways. Instead, the findings highlight the complexities teachers face when managing children’s anxiety at school, shaped by societal beliefs, gender expectations, and limited professional training.