Housing Status and Stress in College Students
Christina Haligowski
Co-Presenters: Jessica Czapalski, Venu Gandhi
College: College of Liberal Arts
Major: Psychology
Faculty Research Mentor: Shai Tabib
Abstract:
This study explored the relationship between housing status and stress in college students. The decision to live on-campus or off-campus may impact college students mentally, physically, and financially. Factors such as social interactions and sleep patterns can influence stress, which in turn may affect their academic performance and mental health. There is limited and conflicting research on whether those living on or off campus are more likely to be stressed which is what the present study specifically aimed to investigate. A total of 98 undergraduate students at Kean University completed a survey assessing their frequency of experiencing distress or anxiety. The survey measured specific sources of stress such as academics, housing, finances, and relationships. An independent samples t-test found no significant difference between the stress levels of students living on-campus compared to those living off-campus. These findings can potentially help college students to have better clarity on which living situation would be best for them, without the added pressure that their decision may impact their stress. These findings suggest that the stress experienced or lack thereof, will be relatively similar among students regardless of their living situations.