Role of Psychological Capital Interventions in reducing Perceived Academic Stress amongst University Students

Abstract

The study focused to examine the role, Psychological Capital (PsyCap) Interventions (PCI) play in reducing perceived academic stress amongst university students. Other objectives of the study were to check the level and prevalence of these variables and impact of different demographics on study variables in our culture. A group comprising of 8 participants, studying in different public/private universities of Islamabad/ Rawalpindi area - scoring high on perceived academic stress scale was selected. In backdrop of theoretical background and the literature review, it was hypothesized that Psychological Capital (PsyCap) Interventions (PCI) would facilitate in reducing the stress symptoms. The study was comparative, wherein; academic stress of students was assessed by applying Perceptions of Academic Stress Scale (PAS) before (pre) and after (post) the administration of Psychological Capital (PsyCap) Interventions (PCI).  Format of the study was 4 group therapy sessions; 75-90 minutes session per week.  A positive change in the mental health of the group was witnessed regarding presenting problems and management of behavior all the way through these interventions. Post intervention results validated the hypothesis and established considerable diminution in stress symptoms after Psychological Capital Interventions (PCI) administration.