Self-Actualization Wellness: A Developmental Approach to Predicting and Reducing College Student Stress Related to Person and Environment Variables
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Authors
Harrell, Alyssa
Issue Date
2018
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Despite the growing recognition on the importance of mental health and wellbeing, college
students’ mental health and wellbeing continue to decline. Given this information, research is
needed to explore potential predictors of college student stress. Utilizing a theoretical model of
Self-Actualization Wellness and the Person-Environment Fit Theory, the purpose of this study
was to explore potential predictors that may impact college students’ wellness. More specifically,
the extent to which a higher level of development in each of the seven dimensions of the
theoretical model of Self-Actualization Wellness reduces the impact of college student stressors
and areas of concern. Identified areas of college student stress or concern are a) person variables
and b) environment variables. A quantitative approach and survey methodology were utilized in
this study. Moreover, participants included 199 college-aged students, mostly undergrads, from
universities in the central United States. Independent samples t-test revealed males had a higher
mean self-sufficiency, self-care, self-assess, self-advocate, and self-advocate score than females.
Furthermore, hierarchical regression analyses suggested that gender, ethnicity, age, intelligence
beliefs of a growth mindset, level of extroversion, and six of the seven dimensions of Self
Actualization Wellness (self-sufficiency, self-care, self-social understanding, self-assess, self
advocate, and self-compassion) statistically significantly predicted person variables and
environment variables. Recommendations for college students, postsecondary institutions, and
policy makers and discussed, along with recommendations for future research.
Description
193 leaves
Citation
Publisher
Drake University