Resilience and Subjective Stress Among University Students: The Moderating Role of Sex

Magdalena Boczkowska; Ewa Kulawska

doi:10.21852/sem.1878

Published: 2025-12-31

Vol. 46 No. 2 (2025)

Resilience and Subjective Stress Among University Students: The Moderating Role of Sex

Magdalena Boczkowska

, Ewa Kulawska

Seminare. Learned Investigations

Section: Articles

https://doi.org/10.21852/sem.1878

Abstract

Introduction: The increasing level of stress among the university student population represents a major concern for both psychological well-being and academic functioning. Within this framework, resilience serves as a crucial protective factor, facilitating effective coping with adversity and mitigating the negative impact of stress. This research aims to examine the association between resilience and stress, with a specific focus on sex-based differences. Methods: The study was conducted in 2023 and included 389 university students (55% female, 45% male). The mean age of the participants was 21.5 years (SD = 4.14). Data were collected via an anonymous online survey. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and the Resilience Scale (RS-14) were administered. Results: A high prevalence of stress was noted in 58.6% of the participants. Females exhibited statistically significantly greater levels of stress than males. Furthermore, the moderation analysis indicated that sex moderates the association between resilience and stress; however, this effect was specific to males. Discussion: These findings highlight the necessity of considering gender differences in research on stress and resilience, as well as in designing psychological interventions. Such interventions should be adapted to address the distinct needs and coping mechanisms of both male and female university students.

Keywords:

resilience, stress, university students, gender

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Boczkowska, M., & Kulawska, E. (2025). Resilience and Subjective Stress Among University Students: The Moderating Role of Sex. Seminare. Learned Investigations, 46(2). https://doi.org/10.21852/sem.1878

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