The Influence of Adult Attachment and Interpersonal Problems on College Life Adaptation in Nursing Students

Objectives This is a descriptive correlational study analyzing the relationships among adult attachment, interpersonal problems, and college life adaptation in nursing students, ultimately identifying factors influencing their adaptation to college life. Methods The study was conducted from September 1 to September 15, 2024, with a convenience sample of 178 nursing students from four-year universities located in Chungnam, Chungbuk, and Daejeon. This study is a descriptive survey research. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS 25.0, employing descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation, and multiple linear regression. Results The participants' adult attachment score was 3.17±0.82, indicating a lower-than-moderate level, while the mean score for interpersonal problems was 2.12±0.58, also below the moderate level. The mean score for college life adaptation was 3.53±0.55, representing a moderate level. Interpersonal problems showed a statistically significant difference based on GPA (F=3.353, p<.05). Similarly, college life adaptation also showed a statistically significant difference based on GPA. College life adaptation was negatively correlated with adult attachment (r=-.744, p<.001) and interpersonal problems (r=-.725, p<.001). In contrast, adult attachment and interpersonal problems were positively correlated (r=.786, p<.001). The factors influencing college life adaptation were adult attachment, interpersonal problems, and academic year, with a total explanatory power of 61.7% (F=95.953, p<.001). Conclusions To enhance college life adaptation among nursing students, it is essential to implement strategies that strengthen mental health management by reducing adult attachment levels and improving interpersonal relationships. Additionally, various programs and intervention studies should be applied to address adult attachment and interpersonal problems, which are key factors influencing college life adaptation.