Relationships between stress, coping and depressive symptoms among overseas university preparatory Chinese students: a cross-sectional study
2011

Stress, Coping, and Depression in Overseas Chinese Students

Sample size: 756 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Chou Pi-Chi, Chao Yu-Mei, Yang Hao-Jan, Yeh Gwo-Liang, Lee Tony Szu-Hsien

Primary Institution: National Taiwan Normal University

Hypothesis

This study aimed to examine the relationships among stress, coping strategies, and depressive symptoms in overseas Chinese university preparatory students.

Conclusion

The study found that stress is associated with coping strategies and depressive symptoms, with passive strategies mediating the relationship between stress and depressive symptoms.

Supporting Evidence

  • High levels of stress predicted the use of both active and passive coping strategies.
  • Passive coping strategies mediated the relationship between stress and depressive symptoms.
  • The study included a large sample of 756 overseas Chinese university preparatory students.

Takeaway

When students feel stressed, they often use ways to cope that can make them feel sadder, especially if they avoid dealing with their problems.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study using structured questionnaires to measure stress, coping strategies, and depressive symptoms.

Potential Biases

Self-reported measures may introduce bias, although confidentiality was assured.

Limitations

The study only examined relationships among variables and did not explore cognitive processes or personality factors that may influence depression.

Participant Demographics

Participants were overseas Chinese university preparatory students, primarily from Hong Kong and Macau.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-11-352

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication