Factors Related to Stress of First-Year Students at Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The aim of this research was to explore stress levels and factors associated with stress among first-year students at Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sample included 357 undergraduate students who enrolled at the university during the academic year 2021. Data were collected through an online questionnaire divided into 3 parts: personal information (Part 1), Stress Scale Test (Part 2) and Factors affecting stress in 4 areas: family, social relationships, adapting to learning and COVID-19 disease prevention(Part 3). The reliability of the questionnaire was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient, and parts 2 and 3 exhibited a reliability coefficient of .93. Descriptive statistics were employed to determine the mean values, percentages, maximum and minimum values. Additionally, the relationship between factors associated with stress was examined using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test, as well as Pearson's correlation analysis, depending on the statistical conditions.

The research results found that Most are female, 60.7 percent have no chronic diseases, 98.6 percent have monthly income of 8,001 -12,000 baht, accounting for 54.2 percent. Family members have no history of mental health problems. 97.5 percent family members have a history of COVID-19 illness. 67.4 percent and 89.6 percent of family members affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, with the majority of the sample Have a high level of stress And factors related to stress were found to be personal factors, including faculty, average money received per month. and family members affected by the COVID-19 outbreak and family factors Social relations Self-protective behavior Adjustment to studying It is significantly related to stress at the 0.05 level. The results of this research will be beneficial to planning mental health services for students. And counseling services should be provided for students with high levels of stress. To prevent mental health problems.