Perception of Stress Coping Strategies among MZ Generation University Students: Focusing on the Q Methodology

Objectives The purpose of this study is to categorize how university students of the MZ generation cope with stress and analyze their characteristics. Methods Q methodology was used to confirm the subjective perception of MZ generation college students' stress response methods. At this time, the Q methodology aims to objectively measure human subjective aspects such as attitudes, beliefs, and values, and this methodology was used because in-depth opinions could be studied. Results Stress coping methods were categorized into five. The first type is a ‘considerate type’ that finds the cause of stress and carefully analyzes it to relieve stress. The second type is a ‘lone type’ who takes time alone to avoid people and tries to solve it. The third type is a ‘dependent type’ that tries to relieve stress with the people around him. The fourth type is an ‘immersive type’ that creates a new situation and copes with stress situations while immersed in other things. The fifth type is a ‘propulsion type’ that focuses on solving problems, not identifying problems. Conclusions First, it is necessary to connect various programs inside and outside the school to relieve stress for MZ generation college students who fall under the ‘considerate type’. Second, the ‘lone type’ first needs a program that helps them develop self-esteem, self-resilience, and self-efficacy. Third, rather than introducing a specific program, the ‘dependent type’ needs to provide an environment where they can communicate and interact smoothly with people around them. Fourth, since ‘immersive’ college students are the type to immerse themselves in hobbies or sports activities, it is necessary to provide conditions for various hobbies and sports activities. Fifth, ‘promoting’ college students should be provided with all possible information, activities, and programs to relieve stress to create conditions for them to promote themselves.