Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Medha Talpade

Abstract

AbstractFirst-year university students are at risk for mental and physical health ailments due to maladaptive stress coping mechanisms. A gap in research remains as to whether there are health benefits for minority religious groups or students who have a spiritual (nonreligious) belief system. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between student spirituality and the level of emotional intelligence (EI), perceived stress (PS), and life quality (LQ), as moderated by different campus types (secular or religious). The theory of spirituality and the theory of individual psychology were used as frameworks to explain the psychological, emotional, and physical well-being of students’ experiences. This study featured a quantitative, nonexperimental, cross-sectional survey design that included a convenience sample of 340 first-year university students, with an 86% response rate. Four research questions were explored. Data were analyzed using SPSS software for correlations and moderations between spirituality, EI, PS, LQ, and campus type. The results showed only a significant relationship between spirituality and EI. No significant relationships were found between spirituality, PS, or LQ. A partial moderating effect was identified for campus type. Findings suggest that spirituality and EI could potentially increase first-year students’ social adjustment and academic success. It is recommended that interventions to increase spirituality and EI start in high school and be applied at both university and community college campuses. This study could contribute to positive social change by aiding health practitioners and administrators in the development of wellness programs and other interventions for university students who are preparing to attend university for the first time.

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