A Temporal Cognitive Model of The Influence of Methylphenidate (Ritalin) on Test Anxiety

This paper presents the connection between exam or test anxiety and the illicit use of Ritalin (methylphenidate). Ritalin is used by students as a cognitive enhancer and thus to increase their learning and memory abilities. However, a side effect of Ritalin has altered fear reactions to stimuli. Thus, this paper aims to gain insight in the mechanisms of Ritalin on the anxiety system. The created network visualizes the overlapping systems of Ritalin and anxiety and possible outcomes of the use of Ritalin around exam weeks. First, the exam is noticed, with the induced (normal) stress response on having this exam. The wish to increase learning abilities during exam weeks surfaces, and Ritalin is administered as a result of cognitive decision making. Finally, the model shows how Ritalin can decrease test anxiety.