The Sociology of Mental Health among College Students: Social Pressure, Anxiety, and Coping Mechanisms
Keywords:
Social Pressure, Anxiety, Coping Mechanisms, College Students, Mental Health, Academic Stress, Gender Differences, Social Media InfluenceAbstract
The mental health of college students has become a growing sociological concern, shaped by academic pressures, social expectations, digital environments, and interpersonal relationships. This study examines the interconnections between social pressure, anxiety, and coping mechanisms among college students using a descriptive survey design with a sample of 300 respondents. The findings reveal a high prevalence of anxiety, with more than 80% of students reporting moderate to severe levels. Family expectations and academic demands emerged as the strongest contributors to social pressure, indicating the influence of cultural and institutional norms on students’ emotional well-being. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.67) was observed between social pressure and anxiety, underscoring that increased social demands significantly heighten psychological distress. Coping strategies varied widely among students. Problem-focused coping—such as time management and seeking academic support—proved the most effective in reducing anxiety, while emotional coping offered moderate relief. In contrast, avoidant coping behaviors, including withdrawal and excessive digital engagement, were associated with increased anxiety. Gender differences were also evident, with female students reporting higher levels of pressure and anxiety. Additionally, students who spent more than four hours daily on social media experienced significantly higher anxiety due to peer comparison and digital overload.
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