26th Annual Student Research Conference
A Comparison of Perceived Emotional Stress in ROTC Cadets and Non-Commissioned Students
Lindsey M. Owens* and Sarah A. Duesterhaus
Dr. Joseph Visker, Faculty Mentor
The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in perceived emotional stress between Army ROTC Cadets and non-commissioned students at a small, Midwestern University. A total of 131 students completed a self-report instrument consisting of two different scales. The Perceived Stress Scale was administered to both ROTC Cadets and non-commissioned students and consisted of ten Likert-type questions. A survey containing 33 ranking, Likert-type, multiple choice, and true/false questions relating to ROTC events and military lifestyle was also given to the ROTC Cadets to better gauge their stress as it related to ROTC. The results indicated no statistically significant difference in the stress of ROTC Cadets and non-commissioned students. Results suggested that camaraderie among ROTC Cadets alleviated their perceived emotional stress. The intent of the study was to provide insight for future stress-related health programs for college students, particularly those involving ROTC Cadets. Implications for professional practice will be discussed.
Keywords: ROTC, perceived stress, college students, Perceived Stress Scale, Army, Cadets, camaraderie, health
Topic(s):Health Science
Psychology
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 4-3
Location: GEO
Time: 3:30