Somatization and Depression Among University Students: Antecedents and Antidotes

Authors

  • Syed Gohar Abbas Sarhad University of Science & IT Peshawar
  • Muhammad Shahab-ud- Din Sarhad University of Science & IT Peshawar
  • Kamal Badar University of Balochistan, Quetta, Pakistan

Abstract

This exploratory research aims to shed light on the sources and consequences of stress of university students of a private sector university of Peshawar, Pakistan. Studies on stress reveal that the stressors though vary in different environments but ultimately lead to physical (somatic) ill-health and even depression. The students in educational institutions increasingly face many stressors which may have negative impact on their physical and psychological health. A sample of 100 students from a private sector university of Peshawar filled a structured questionnaire. Results revealed that most of our independent variables i.e. family problems, financial problems, work overload and vulnerability to terrorism have a significant positive relationship with somatic stress & depression. However, teachers’ support did not reveal any significant relationship with both our dependent variables i.e. somatic stress & depression. Stress management strategies at primary, secondary and tertiary level have been recommended to help university students in coping with the harmful effects of stress.

Author Biographies

Syed Gohar Abbas, Sarhad University of Science & IT Peshawar

Assistant Professor, Department of Business Administration,

Muhammad Shahab-ud- Din, Sarhad University of Science & IT Peshawar

MBA Student, Department of Business Administration

Kamal Badar, University of Balochistan, Quetta, Pakistan

Assistant Professor, Institute of Management Sciences (IMS)

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Published

30.06.2016