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Perceived problem solving, stress, and health among college students
Erin Largo-Wight1, P Michael Peterson, W William Chen
1University of Florida, Department of Health Education and Behavior, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA. elargo@ufl.edu
American Journal of Health Behavior
|July 12, 2005
Summary
Effective problem-solving skills significantly improve college students' physical health and reduce perceived stress. This highlights the importance of problem-solving in student wellness programs.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Health Science
- Student Wellness
Background:
- College students often experience high levels of stress.
- Stress can negatively impact physical health.
- Problem-solving skills are crucial for managing life challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the links between perceived problem-solving abilities, stress levels, and physical health in college students.
- To determine if problem-solving is a significant predictor of stress and health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ) and Personal Problem Solving Inventory (PSI).
- Assessed stress-related physical health symptoms in 232 undergraduate students.
- Correlational analysis to examine relationships between variables.
Main Results:
- Perceived problem-solving ability was a significant predictor of self-reported physical health symptoms (R² = .12, P < .001).
- Perceived problem-solving ability also significantly predicted perceived stress (R² = .19, P < .001).
Conclusions:
- Problem-solving skills are more influential on physical health and stress than physical activity, alcohol, or social support.
- Enhancing problem-solving skills may be a key strategy for college health promotion initiatives.