Dimensions of Psychological Wellbeing as Predictors of Stress among Undergraduates

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between dimensions of psychological wellbeing and stress among undergraduates of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Methodology: the study utilized an Ex Post Facto research design with secondary data of one thousand (1000) respondents generated from the platform for psychological assessment of staff and students, developed by Centre for Counselling and Career Development of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Multiple regression analysis was used for analysis at .001, and .05 levels of significance. Findings: From the purpose of the study and research questions, six hypotheses were postulated and tested. The findings indicated that hypotheses 1, 3, and 4 were rejected which means that autonomy, environmental mastery, and purpose in life did not predict stress among undergraduates. Whereas, hypotheses 2, 5, and 6 were accepted indicating that positive relationship with others, personal growth, and self-acceptance predicted stress among undergraduates. Unique Contributions to Theory, Policy and Practice: Since some dimension of psychological wellbeing (positive relationship with others, personal growth, and self-acceptance) were found to have a direct predictive relationship with stress among undergraduates, the theoretical framework is further validated; hence, the findings in this study could be used for further elaboration of the theoretical framework. Psychotherapist and counsellours would benefit from the findings, since assessment of students among other parameters should take the factors of interpersonal relationship into consideration. Also, psychotherapeutic regiments, directed at improving these domains of PWB will serve both therapeutic and prophylactic purposes.