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Presenter: Kelly E. Frechette

Faculty Sponsor: Suanne Maurer

School: Bridgewater State University

Research Area: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences

Session: Poster Session 3, 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM, Auditorium, A78

ABSTRACT

Students in health and kinesiology programs represent a population exposed to significant academic pressures. Though these college students are knowledgeable in health and exercise, only a portion of them exercise regularly. Reducing stress in students who are faced with difficult demands is a key factor in bettering the wellness of college communities. Understanding the relationship between perceived stress and exercise frequency is a major focal point, especially considering the known effects of exercise on mental health. The purpose of this study is to analyze the comparison between perceived stress in health-focused college students who exercise versus those who do not. To achieve this, a cross-sectional survey was administered to college students (63% women, 34% men, and 3% gender-diverse) enrolled in the Department of Health and Kinesiology. Demographics were assessed, and participants reported wellness related information as well as responses to a perceived stress scale. The majority of participants reported to exercise three or more days per week; 81% of the sample fell within the moderate stress category. High stress levels were disproportionate among women (19.05%) compared to the men in the sample (2.94%). Forty-two percent of participants reported a prior mental health diagnosis, suggesting preexisting vulnerability within the sample. These findings suggest that while physical activity contributes to overall wellness, it may not offset psychological stressors inherent in health-related academic programs. Future research should examine the intensity, duration, and psychological context of exercise in order to better understand its effectiveness in stress reduction. The results of this survey highlight the need for greater mental health support strategies within college environments.

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