A comparative description of perceived stress and coping strategies among psychology and nonpsychology students in the United Arab Emirates

Purpose: This study describes perceived stress and coping strategies as they occur within a college-aged population from an Arab background. Variables were compared between psychology students and their peers from other faculties. Design and Methods: A cross-sectional, correlational design was used for this study. A total of 114 students completed the Brief COPE questionnaire, the Perceived Stress Scale, and a measure of our own design to assess sources of psychosocial support. Findings: The complete sample engaged in help-seeking behavior, though distinct differences between groups were evident. Perceived stress was pervasive. Students employed a range of coping strategies but showed a clear preference for emotion-focused strategies. Practice Implications: Training institutions carry the responsibility for developing supportive interventions to promote students’ throughput, and ensure the graduation of competent and ethically sound clinicians.