Citation

Garett R, Liu S, Young SD. J. Am. Coll. Health 2017; 65(5): 331-338.

Affiliation

University of California Institute for Prediction Technology , Department of Family Medicine , University of California , Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles , CA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07448481.2017.1312413

PMID

28362146

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: 1) examine changes in stress during first semester among freshmen undergraduates; 2) identify predictors of stress (coping strategies, emotional states and quality of sleep). PARTICIPANTS: 197 freshmen students were recruited for a 10-week study during first quarter (Oct-Dec, 2015).

METHODS: Students completed weekly self-report surveys on stress, coping strategies, emotions, and quality of sleep. A General Linear Mixed-Model was used for analyses.

RESULTS: Stress was elevated during examinations periods. Females reported a greater stress level than males. Increased stress level was significantly associated with lower sleep quality and greater negative emotions (fear, anger). Exercise was an effective stress copying strategy while other coping methods (Internet usage, meditation and self-isolation) were associated with higher stress. Social media usage did not influence stress level.

CONCLUSIONS: Future stress management programs for freshman need to consider gender differences and may focus on sleep, exercise and decreased general Internet usage.

Language: en

Keywords

Emotions; Sleep Quality; Social Media; Stress; Stress Coping; University Students