Research Article
Social Phobia in Undergraduate University Students in Oman: Prevalence and Correlates with Academic Achievement and Personal Characteristics
Maryam Al Ghafri,
Khalid Al Nassri*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2024
Pages:
88-95
Received:
3 July 2024
Accepted:
22 July 2024
Published:
6 August 2024
Abstract: Background: Social Anxiety disorder (SAD) is common worldwide. However, data from Oman is deficient. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of social phobia among undergraduate university students in Oman and investigate its relationship with the subjects’ academic performance and personal characteristics. Methodology: Using a cross-sectional study design, 377 students were selected as a sample from Univercity of the Technology and Applied Scinces at AL-Dhahira Governorate of Oman. A convenience sampling method was adopted to reach out to the participants. The data was collected between March, 2024, to May, 2024. Data from nurses was gathered by a primary survey approach utilizing a closed-ended questionnaire. The statistical analysis was carried out using IBM SPSS (Statistical Tool for Social Sciences) version 20.0. Results: A total of 377 students self-completed the study survey. The results showed a high prevalence (91.2%) of social phobia among study subjects. Single linear-regression analysis indicated a significant association between social phobia and the academic GPA (p = 0.000). The influences of participants’ characteristics on the level of social phobia were also tested among study participants. Analysis utilizing Chi-square test showed that there was a significant association in the gender (p = 0.001), smoking ( p = 0.000) and socioeconomic status (p = 0.018) with the level of social phobia. Using Further analysis utilizing an independent ttest showed that there was a significant difference in the gender ( p = 0.000), medication use (p = 0.020) and history child abuse (p = 0.000) with the level of social phobia. Finally, one way Anova F-Test was applid and socioeconomic status was significant (p = 0.042) with social phobia level. Conclusion: The study came to the conclusion that SAD is prevalent among the sampled population and various associated factors have been found. The current findings may increase healthcare professionals' and academics' awareness of the need of early case detection and management. This study lays the foundation for succeedingstudies that will seek an understanding of the contributing factors related to the incidence of social phobia among Omani university students.
Abstract: Background: Social Anxiety disorder (SAD) is common worldwide. However, data from Oman is deficient. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of social phobia among undergraduate university students in Oman and investigate its relationship with the subjects’ academic performance and personal characteristics. Methodology: Using a cross-sectional...
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Research Article
The Effect of Stress on the Academic Performance of School-Going Adolescents in Central Monrovia, Liberia
Anthony Ntem*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2024
Pages:
96-105
Received:
22 March 2024
Accepted:
12 June 2024
Published:
15 August 2024
Abstract: The current study aimed to examine the effect of stress on the academic performance of school-going adolescents. For this study, a sample of 60 adolescents ranging in the age group of 12 to 19 years were randomly selected from five secondary schools (J. J. Roberts United Methodist School, Monrovia College, William V. S. Tubman High School, St. Peter Lutheran High School and College of West Africa) in Central Monrovia. The research instrument used by the researcher was a questionnaire. The questionnaire combines both quantitative (closed-ended questions and qualitative (open-ended questions) data. The instrument used to generate data was the questionnaire titled: The effect of stress on the academic performance of school going adolescents (ESAPSGA). Data obtained as responses were analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) for quantitative data and Nvivo for the qualitative data. The findings of this study show that stress has a big effect on how well students in Central Monrovia, Liberia do in school. Results showed that the sources of academic stress include schoolwork (exams, assignments, and grades), bullying from friends, family problems, and money issues. It affects students negatively through depression, distraction, and panic attacks, which leads to poor academic performances as they responded in the questionnaires administered. Results also showed that the majority of school-going adolescent manage stress by listening to music, followed by talking to a friend/ family or parent about the problem. Based on the findings and conclusions of this research, the following recommendations are made: 1. School managements should organize stress reduction programs such as sport clubs and activities for students. 2. School managements should have a school counsellor so that students can get access to counseling services that include music therapy. 3. School management should create a nurturing and empathetic school environment.
Abstract: The current study aimed to examine the effect of stress on the academic performance of school-going adolescents. For this study, a sample of 60 adolescents ranging in the age group of 12 to 19 years were randomly selected from five secondary schools (J. J. Roberts United Methodist School, Monrovia College, William V. S. Tubman High School, St. Pete...
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Research Article
The Mediating Roles of Beauty Ideals and Upward Comparison in Social Media’s Influence on Body Image Anxiety Among Chinese High School Students
Zhaowei Zhou,
Yixuan Dong*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2024
Pages:
106-110
Received:
3 July 2024
Accepted:
19 August 2024
Published:
20 August 2024
Abstract: This comprehensive study delves into the intricate relationship between problematic social media use and the escalating issue of body image anxiety among Chinese high school students. By meticulously analyzing the roles of beauty ideal internalization and upward social comparison as critical mediating factors, the research uncovers a troubling pattern where a substantial number of students are drawn into a vortex of endless social media browsing and comparative behavior. This engagement is not only linked to an excessive allocation of time on social media platforms but also to the exacerbation of body image anxiety. The findings poignantely illustrate the strong correlations between the propensity for upward social comparison, the absorption of societal beauty ideals, and the subsequent increase in body image anxiety experienced by the student population. The study’s revelations underscore the imperative need for a multifaceted intervention strategy that involves the active participation of social media platforms, educational institutions, and the family unit to cultivate a digital ecosystem that supports mental health and well-being. By addressing the root causes of beauty ideal internalization and upward social comparison, the research aims to equip stakeholders with the insights necessary to design and implement effective solutions, fostering an online environment that nurtures positive body image perceptions and reduces the psychological distress associated with problematic social media use, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more resilient generation of young adults.
Abstract: This comprehensive study delves into the intricate relationship between problematic social media use and the escalating issue of body image anxiety among Chinese high school students. By meticulously analyzing the roles of beauty ideal internalization and upward social comparison as critical mediating factors, the research uncovers a troubling patt...
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