Abstract:
Stress is a part and partial of the current social life and exam stress is one of main types of
stress. Due to its competitive nature, Grade five scholarship exam is considered as a stressful
exam which can create number of negative impacts on child growth and development. Thus,
a proper psycho-social study on this issue is yet to be done. This research aims to examine
the link between the nature of child‘s personality and the exam stress. The study used the mix
method on data gathering. 125 students and 15 parents and teachers were selected from
Colombo and Gampaha districts of the western province. A questionnaire system, interviews
and observation were utilized to collect data. Further the case study system was used for the
student that shows the high stress rate according to the stress scale. Gathered data were
analyzed using symbolic interactionism theory by Gorge Herbert Mead and the Psycho
analysis theory by Sigmund Freud.The study finds that exam stress of the child determines by
the Ed, Ego and Super Ego influence. Children with strong Ego system well maintain their
exam stress based on the realty principles. Children with strong Ed systems neglect their
exam stress based on the pleasure principles. Children with the great influence from their
Super Ego system have a great determination to fulfill their parent‘s and teacher‘s
expectations, dream based on the morality and therefore find a negative stress such as
morality anxiety. The study also finds a strong inter relationship between personality type and
the stress. Negative impacts of the exam stress can cause for future personality disorders of
child.
