Physical Activity as a Coping Mechanism for College Stress

Matthew Wolz
Dr. Nancy Daley-Moore and Dr. Julene Ensign, Faculty Mentors

Physical activity could be a way for people to cope with stress. This study examined the predictors of perceiving physical activity as a coping mechanism among incoming freshmen. From 2020-2024, surveys were sent to incoming freshmen (n=1,075) to assess their overall perceptions of wellness across multiple dimensions. Multiple linear regression was used to examine whether certain variables related to physical, relational, spiritual, financial, and intellectual wellness predicted using physical activity as a coping mechanism. Preliminary results showed the overall model predicted 49.8% of the variance in the dependent variable (Adjusted R2=0.498). Some statistically significant predictor variables were having an interest in learning new things (p<0.004), meeting current exercise recommendations (p<0.001), and using spirituality to cope (p<0.004). Further research is needed to explore coping behaviors and whether physical activity interventions could support how students manage stress.

 

Keywords: Physical Wellness, Physical Activity, Stress, Coping, Stress Management, Exercise, Student Well-Being, Coping Mechanisms

Topic(s):Health Science

Presentation Type: Poster Presentation

Session: TBA
Location: TBA
Time: TBA