Research

This research identifies six negative predictors of university students’ psychological wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic, which include White/European ethnicity, restriction stress, perceived worry about mental health, dietary changes, perceived sufficiency of distancing communication, and social isolation. Social isolation has the largest negative impact on students’ psychological wellbeing. Conversely, positive predictors include physical health status, emotional […]

For Australia to compete in the global economy, our university graduates need to be career-ready. This means they need to be flexible, adaptive and able to apply their technical skills to real-world situations. To support the acquisition of these skills, universities offer a broad range of opportunities for students to engage with the workforce while they undertake their degree.

A survey of 979 undergraduate and postgraduate international students at an Australian university found that most evaluated their physical and mental health positively. Few students reported engaging in health-related risk practices, and there was little change in health behaviours since arriving in Australia. The study suggests that most international students do not find studying overseas […]

Students experience higher psychological distress compared to their peers in the general population, with certain academic disciplines showing elevated levels. While gender, student status, and primary language have minimal impact on distress levels, financial pressures, academic field, resilience, time commitments, and family care are significant contributors. Resilience is associated with lower distress and higher well-being. […]

Students recommend the implementation of effective teaching practices, regular interactions with peers and teachers, and enhanced access to support services. They appreciate being involved in the design and implementation of well-being programs and services and value the opportunity to contribute their ideas and perspectives. Baik, C., Larcombe, W., & Brooker, A., How universities can enhance […]

Optimism, self-efficacy, and resilience support student adaptation and reduce stress. Read Stephen Morton’s research article Managing the Transition: The Role of Optimism and Self-Efficacy for First-Year Australian University Student here.

Students face significant stressors related to academics, finances, time management, and personal challenges, which contribute to higher levels of psychological distress compared to the general population. Key coping strategies include engaging in social activities, participating in sports or exercise, and listening to music. Interventions and policies that promote mental well-being and community engagement are recommended […]

Many students experience psychological distress, which is influenced by factors such as age, field of study, and personal challenges. Interventions focusing on mental well-being, support systems, and community engagement are recommended. Unhealthy lifestyle choices are associated with a higher risk of psychological distress. Poor dietary habits and sedentary behaviours contribute to psychological distress. University students […]

To date, research has primarily examined how various contextual factors assist students in adjusting to university as they commence their studies. However, there is a significant gap in research and tools that specifically define and measure students’ adjustments, considering their transitional challenges, emotional well-being, and barriers to seeking help. Sanagavarapu, P., & Abraham, J., Validating […]

Desire for more on-campus opportunities This research investigated the relationship between competence, self-efficacy, enjoyment, and motivation with physical activity behaviour during student’s transition from school to university. Among 558 first-year biology health science students, 80% reported satisfactory or above physical activity index scores, with males scoring significantly higher than females. Enjoyment, self-efficacy, and competence were […]