From Numerical Perception to Mathematics Anxiety: Insights from Neuroimaging Evidence

This review examines the role of numerical perception in the development of mathematical abilities and the neural underpinnings of mathematics anxiety in light of neuroimaging findings. Numerical perception relies on cognitive systems such as the core number system and the symbolic representation system, and is localized in the brain’s fronto-parietal regions. Individual differences in mathematical performance are influenced not only by general cognitive factors but also by domain-specific factors such as numerical processing, mathematical concept knowledge, and mathematics anxiety. Mathematics anxiety is thought to impair performance by limiting working memory through negative emotional responses that arise during numerical tasks. Neuroimaging studies have shown functional and structural alterations in the amygdala, insula, and fronto-parietal networks in individuals with high mathematics anxiety. However, these neural alterations associated with mathematics anxiety have been found to be modifiable through interventions such as education, practice, and emotion regulation. A better understanding of the relationship between mathematics anxiety and number processing may contribute to the development of practice- and education-based application strategies aimed at enhancing numerical performance.