ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study is to identify and examine how academic stress affects the

students’ performance of Senior High School of Salay National High School.

This study used the qualitative method approach. Randomly selected in Senior High

School were the participants of the study. Semi-structured interview is designed for the

collection of data and conducted a one-on-one interview with the respondents. Audio recorder is

also used to record the respondents’ responses to gather clear information and documentation is

done for evidences.

Based on the results, it was concluded that academic stress really affects the academic

performance of the respondents. It has both positive and negative effects on students’

performance when handled properly or not. Despite of having workload, participants make it as a

motivation to acquire it. For further confirmations, the Attribution Theory has supported the

study wherein a student must have a sense of control over the outcome of an academic task and

motivation to succeed.