The Role of Coping in the Relationship Between Academic Distress and PTSD Symptoms in College Students

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 1:45 pm - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Transforming inclusive enviroments in higher education

Abstract

Higher education presents unique challenges that may contribute to the mental health crisis on college campuses. While academic stressors are not typically classified as traumatic events, they can still be deeply distressing and impact mental health. This study examines how college students cope with their most challenging academic experiences. Using survey data from students across the U.S. (N = 215), we found that students who relied on avoidant coping strategies were more likely to report posttraumatic stress symptoms. Notably, 19.53% of participants scored above the clinical threshold for probable PTSD. These findings underscore the role of coping in student well-being and suggest that academic stressors may have more severe psychological consequences than previously assumed.

Authors

• Danae Gaytan Sanelias, Washington University in St. Louis

• Andrew C. Butler, Washington University in St. Louis

• Rachel S. Martin, OneGoal