Stress Response: Do self-efficacy and exercise matter?

Abstract

Stress is rampant in the world today. Yet, studies investigating its impact on the student populations in the Nigerian context are scarce. Therefore, this study examined the impact of general self-efficacy and exercise on stress response among university undergraduate students. Participants were 202 students, aged 17 – 38 years. The University of Nigeria Stress Symptoms Scale (UNSSS) and the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) were used to assess stress symptoms and self-efficacy, respectively. Hierarchical regression was used to analyze the data. It was found that both self-efficacy and exercise significantly and negatively impacted on stress response. Considering the buffering effect of self-efficacy and exercise on stress response, it is recommended that educational institutions articulate and execute programs that will empower students to better face the challenges of the ever changing and complex world.