EFFECTS OF GRADES AS DETERMINING SELF-WORTH OF THE SELECTED ACADEMIC ACHIEVERS OF STEM 11 STUDENTS OF GENERAL DE JESUS COLLEGE

Abstract

Academic achievement is often used by students as a primary basis for evaluating their self-worth. Some students believe that personal value is closely tied to excelling academically, obtaining high grades, and receiving external rewards for performance. This study examined the effects of grades on the self-worth of selected STEM 11 academic achievers and identified their coping mechanisms in order to provide insights, recommendations, and guidance for students who may be struggling academically. This study utilized a descriptive research design. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, face-to-face interviews, and audio recordings. To identify selected academic achievers among STEM 11 students, the researchers visited classrooms and selected participants through voluntary participation using a raise-hand method. The findings revealed that out of fifteen participants, eight were female and seven were male. In terms of academic achievement, seven participants were with honors, six were with high honors, and two were with highest honors. Participants reported that grades influenced their self-worth in several ways, including increased confidence, a stronger sense of personal value, motivation to maintain high academic performance, and pressure they placed on themselves. To cope with negative effects related to academic pressure, participants employed various coping mechanisms such as spending time with friends, maintaining a positive mindset, developing resilience, and learning to accept failures. The study showed that grades significantly influenced the self-worth of selected academic achievers. While high grades contributed to confidence, motivation, and a sense of worth, they also resulted in self-imposed pressure. The findings highlighted the importance of balanced perspectives on academic success and emphasized the need for healthy coping strategies to manage pressure and maintain psychological well-being.