Abstract

The purpose of this study is investigating the emotional and motivational dimensions related to self-efficacy and to the symptoms of psychological maladjustment, that may affect the mathematical learning difficulties in third grade children. Survey has been carried out on a sample of 103 children (47 males and 56 females) divided into three groups: average intelligent, lower average intelligent and at high risk of dyscalculia. Data analysis showed that children high risk of dyscalculia present significantly higher depression symptoms and conduct problems and mathematical self-efficacy.