Modularized stress management for reduction of predicted illness.

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of this study was to develop a cost-effective modularized and self-paced learning method for reducing stress for beginning college students. Stress associated with entering collegiate programs significantly affects student adjustment and achievement. Many researchers report significant correlations between stress and serious physical and emotional illness. Two hundred ninty-nine students were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. All students completed a Stress Assessment Questionnaire at the beginning of the program and then at four weeks, fifteen weeks, and twelve months. This tool measured student self-reported physical, social, and emotional life changes during the previous year. During the first three weeks of the program, the experimental group received the modularized stress reduction packet aimed at helping students to assess their life stresses, understand the impact that stress has on their health, and develop individualized stress management skills. The con...