Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 28, 2025

The Social Dimension of Stress: Experimental Manipulations of Social Support and Social Identity in the Trier Social Stress Test
Published on: November 19, 2015
The interface of identity distress and psychological problems in students' adjustment to University
Barbara M Gfellner1, Ana I Córdoba2
1Department of Psychology, Brandon University, Brandon, MB, Canada.
Abstract:
Identity distress, psychological symptoms, and adjustment to university (academic, social, and person-emotional) were examined among students in Spain (N = 241; Mage = 19.0 (1.6), Md = 19; 84% female) and Canada (N = 531; Mage = 19.8 (2.2), Md = 19; 82% female). The expected positive relationships were found between these variables. Similarly, increased identity distress of Spanish students and greater maladjustment at university for those in Canada were associated with contextual differences in the respective environments. Psychological problems mediated the linkages between identity distress with academic, social, and person-emotional functioning at university, respectively. Also, psychological problems and context/country were independent predictors of students' identity distress. Findings underscore the importance of examining contextual factors that influence student adjustment to university in relation to identity development and mental health and they offer suggestions for further research and counseling services.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adolescence
Cognitive Dissonance
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth....
Psychological Responses to Stress
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification

