Needs Analysis of Psychosocial Module Development Based on Psychoeducation Approach for Public University Students in Malaysia

Salleh Amat,Mohd Izwan Mahmud,Mohd Hasrul Kamarulzaman,Abu Yazid Abu Bakar,Harizah Izyan Samsudin

doi:10.3390/educsci11100604

Abstract

This study is a needs analysis that aims to develop a psychosocial module based on a psychoeducation approach in order to strengthen the assertiveness, social skills, and psychological well-being of public university students in Malaysia. The specific objectives of this study were to identify the perceptions of university students on the need to design and build a psychosocial module, identify the constructs that should be included in the phase of designing and building of the psychosocial module as well as the support that has been received and the support that the students desire while on campus. This survey study utilized a questionnaire distributed to a total of 286 first year students studying at three public universities in Malaysia. The data obtained were analyzed by using descriptive statistics. The findings of the study showed a highly positive response from the students toward the development of a psychosocial module and the constructs listed in the questionnaire. Implications from this study can further solidify the constructs that should be included in the design and construction of the psychosocial module as well as identify the availability of the approaches, strategies, and support activities that have been received and desired by the students.

Highlights

Higher learning institutions are considered stable institutions for accommodating a group of high achievers with great intellectual capacity, there are, some students who face many problems or difficulties that cause them to be unable to complete their studies
The focus of this study was to carry out a needs analysis to (i) explore the student’s needs of a psychosocial module; (ii) determine the construct required in the design and construction phase of a psychosocial module aimed to strengthen assertiveness, social skill, and psychological well-being university students; and (iii) examine the support that has been received and the support desired by students
Descriptive statistical analysis was used to describe the demographic information of the respondents covering gender, race, field of study, socioeconomic status (SSE), and place of residence, the needs of a psychosocial module developed based on demographics, the construct required in the design of a psychosocial module and the support that has been received and desired by the respondents

Summary

Introduction

Higher learning institutions are considered stable institutions for accommodating a group of high achievers with great intellectual capacity, there are, some students who face many problems or difficulties that cause them to be unable to complete their studies. Among the many issues discussed at the national and international levels are mental health and the psychological well-being of students [1]. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the proportion of students declaring themselves as facing psychological issues against the whole population of students in universities worldwide have increased in recent years [2]. According to Erpianaand and Fourianalistyawati [12], psychological well-being is seen as the individual’s capabilities in facing challenges and striving to function completely. On another account, according to Suvera [13], psychological well-being is connected to the physical and mental well-being of an individual. There is a need for the psychological well-being of students to be given more serious attention by all parties

Objectives

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion