Both direct and indirect approaches were tried, the word ‘mathematics’ was replaced by ‘arithmetic’ or ‘everyday use of numbers’ but it was clear that the reason for people's refusal to be interviewed was simply that the subject was mathematics. … [The] apparently widespread perception amongst adults of mathematics as a daunting subject pervaded a great deal of the sample selection; half the people approached as being appropriate for inclusion in the sample refused to take part. … The extent to which the need to undertake even an apparently straightforward piece of mathematics could induce feelings of helplessness, fear and even guilt in some of those interviewed was, perhaps, the most striking feature of the study. … [These] feelings of guilt … appeared to be especially marked among those whose academic qualifications were high.