Stress Indicators Among 21st Century University Students
https://doi.org/10.47836/mjmhs.18.6.6
- Author:
Kavitha Ashok Kumar
1
;
Aina Suraya
2
;
Ashok Kumar Jeppu
3
;
Sohayla M. Attala
4
;
Sakina R
3
Author Information
1. Otorhinolaryngology Unit, International Medical School (IMS), Management and Science University (MSU), Seksyen 13, 40100 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
2. International Medical School (IMS), Management and Science University (MSU), Seksyen 13, 40100 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
3. Biochemistry Unit, International Medical School (IMS), Management and Science University (MSU), Seksyen 13, 40100 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
4. Forensic Medicine Unit, International Medical School (IMS), Management and Science University (MSU), University Drive, Off Persiaran Olahraga, Shah Alam, 40100, Malaysia&Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, 25 Elgomhouria Street, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Stress, Sociodemographic factors, University students, Malaysia
- From:Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences
2022;18(No.6):35-41
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction: Pursuing higher education has always been considered to be stressful as students need to adapt to new
social and academic environment. Higher education in recent years has shifted from teacher centred authoritarian
approach to student centred learning with amicable learning environment. In this changing scenario, this study
aims to identify the indicators of stress and stress levels among 21st century university students and fathom the demographic factors influencing it. Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on students attending a private
university in Malaysia using Stress Indicators Questionnaire. The data was analysed with descriptive and inferential
statistical tests. Results: A total of 1050 university students aged between 18-30 years from different faculties voluntarily participated in the study. All respondents reported stress varying from very low to dangerous levels. Among
the indicators of stress, sleep and emotional indicators were at dangerous levels, physical indicators and personal
habits were at high level and behaviour indicators were perceived at medium level. A significant difference in total
stress score between students of different age groups and ethnicity were observed, while no significant difference was
noted with regards to gender. Conclusion: This study reveals that various indicators of stress are prevalent among the
present-day university students. It may help guide policy makers and teachers in early identification of stress among
their pupils and plan effective strategies aimed at balancing a good quality of life and academic achievement for the
learners in institutions of higher learning.
- Full text:11.2022my1356.pdf
