A study of stress, social support, and perceived happiness among college students

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the relationship of students’ happiness, stress, and emotional closeness to others to help move towards evidence-based practices for this population. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study was to examine whether college students’ perceived happiness differed significantly based on stress, frequency of stress management techniques, and emotional closeness to others (social support). Results indicated that students are least happy about their financial situation, at work, and at school. Perceived happiness differed significantly based on stress levels and emotional closeness to others. Those who reported low perceived happiness reported higher stress levels and lower emotional closeness to others. The majority (61.0%) of participants reported having high stress, and were most stressed regarding school, lack of time, and with their future career. Although high levels of stress were reported, most (72.0%) students reported low frequency in using stress management techniques. Similar to the findings on perceived happiness, perceived stress differed significantly based on emotionally closeness to parents/legal guardians and friends. Those who reported low perceived stress reported higher emotional closeness to others.

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