Perceived Stress and Coping among University Students Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

University students may have experienced heightened levels of stress during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, less is known about coping mechanisms (i.e., approach and avoidance) that were used to manage such stress. Further, there is a need to identify groups of students who may have been at elevated risk for stress. The present study examined the association between coping and perceived stress and whether there were differences in stress based on sociodemographic factors and COVID-19-related changes in employment, housing, and income. Data were collected from 150 university students between the ages of 18 and 25 years (M = 20.68; SD = 1.73). Results indicated that those who endorsed more approach coping skills had lower levels of stress and those who endorsed more avoidance coping skills had higher levels of stress. Additionally, females, those who lost income, and non-heterosexual individuals endorsed higher levels of stress. The results demonstrate the importance of targeted discussions with university students regarding stressors and coping mechanisms.