The impact of fear of negative evaluation on achievement anxiety and social adjustment among undergraduate students

The relationship between Fear of Negative Evaluation (FNE), Achievement Anxiety, and Social Adjustment among undergraduate students, with reference to gender differences, was examined. A total of 400 students (ages 18-22) from a private arts and science college participated. Findings indicated that FNE had a weak but statistically significant positive correlation with Social Adjustment, while no significant relationship was found with Achievement Anxiety. Gender differences were observed in Social Adjustment, with male students exhibiting better adjustment than females. These results suggest that FNE may facilitate social adaptation, highlighting the need for psychological support and inclusive practices.