Choice of Counseling Channels for Different Psychological Problems: Face-to-Face Versus Computer-Mediated Alternatives

• In Event: Poster Session 6
  In Poster Session: Understanding Youth Experiences Through School-Based Research

Abstract

This study explored university students’ choice of counseling channels when faced with different psychological problems. 312 university students participated and rated their respective dispositions toward choosing different counseling channels (face-to-face, Internet and virtual reality-based counseling) along seven problem areas. Data were analyzed using a 3x7 analysis of variance for correlated samples, followed by a simple main effect and post-hoc comparison when significant effects were found. Significant interaction effects between counseling channels and psychological problems were found. Follow-up tests further indicated that traditional face-to-face counseling was chosen over computer-mediated channels with regards to academics, family-related and financial problems. In contrast, when subjects were faced with sexual identity and romantic relationship problems, the choice patterns changed. Recommendations for university counseling are proposed.

Authors

• Fu-Yun Yu, National Cheng Kung University

• Hsiao-Ting Hsieh, National Cheng Kung University