UNHEALTHY COPING STRATEGIES FOR ACADEMIC STRESS AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN KARACHI

Abstract

Academic stress is a significant challenge in higher education, often leading students to adopt coping mechanisms that are detrimental to their academic and psychological well-being. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and nature of unhealthy coping strategies used by undergraduate students to manage academic stress at a private university in Karachi. Using a descriptive, quantitative research design, data were collected from 150 male undergraduate students through a structured self-report questionnaire. The findings revealed that procrastination (65%), excessive social media use (58%), and emotional eating (52%) were the most frequently reported coping strategies, followed by smoking (40%), avoidance behaviors (38%), and limited reliance on sleeping pills (25%) and substance use (15%). Participants reported that these maladaptive strategies contributed to missed deadlines, poor concentration, and reduced academic motivation. The study concludes that undergraduate students predominantly rely on avoidance-oriented and escapist coping behaviors, which exacerbate stress rather than alleviate it. It is recommended that universities implement counseling services, stress management workshops, and awareness programs to promote healthier coping alternatives and enhance student well-being