College Student Stressors: A Review of the Qualitative Research

Abstract

A total of 40 qualitative studies were reviewed and coded according to the college student stressors they represented. These studies utilized a variety of qualitative methods to examine stressors representing the following themes: relationships, lack of resources, academics, the environment, expectations, diversity, transitions and other stressors. Relationship stressors were the most commonly reported theme and covered areas including stress associated with family, romantic, peer and faculty relationships. Three of the themes (relationships, diversity and other) are novel categories of stressors compared with quantitative reviews on the topic, highlighting the importance of gathering both quantitative and qualitative pieces of information. This review contributes to the stress literature by synthesizing and identifying trends in the qualitative student stress research.

Health dynamics in camps and on campuses: stressors and coping strategies for wellbeing among labourers and students in Cameroon

“…This has been confirmed by some studies (Verger et al, 2009) although others have pointed out that relationships (between students) are the main source of stress for students (Hurst, Baranik, & Daniel, 2013). In our study, the perceived high level of intimidation of students by lecturers was a prominent study-related stressor.…”

“…In our study, students reported experiencing stress because their parents expected them to complete their studies on time and become independent. The study by Hurst, (Hurst et al, 2013) indicates that expectations of the students themselves, striving for perfection, created stress. Again, sources for stress also play out as potential coping mechanisms (Eriksson & Lindström, 2011).…”

Self-regulation for the promotion of student health. Traffic lights: the development of a tailored web-based instrument providing immediate personalized feedback

“…The significant stress factors that have been identified are: increased levels of studyrelated stress, students' financial situations, family problems, the problems ensuing from combining study and work, and those related to making the transition from home to university (Calvete & Connor-Smith, 2006;Cassidy, 2004;De Hoog, & Schilp, 2012;Hall, Chipperfield, Perry, Ruthig, & Goetz, 2006;Hurst, Baranik, & Daniel, 2013;Jessop, Herberts, & Solomon, 2005;Orr, Gwosc, & Netz, 2011;Robotham, 2008;Robotham & Julian, 2006;Schmidt & Simons, 2013).…”

Taking a Timeout to Ensure Well-Being: Social Work Involvement in College Sports

“…Table 7. Other Services that would benefit College Athletes 46 managing academic stress, transitioning to a life of independence, and learning how best to navigate new environments (Hurst, Baranik, & Daniel, 2013;Lester, 2014).…”