International Journal of Research Studies in Psychology
CollabWritive Special Issue
2024 Volume 10 Issue 1
Available Online: 15 July 2024
Author/s:
Chen, Peiling*
Graduate School, Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas, Philippines
Shenzhen Polytechnic University, China
Ma, Xiaoying
Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Bao’an District, Shenzhen, China
Abstract:
Chinese college students face significant psychological pressure, stemming from the stress of the college entrance examination, parental expectations for success, and fierce job market competition. Limited employment opportunities and lower salaries exacerbate feelings of anxiety and hopelessness. Without proper support channels, students may experience declining self-esteem, confidence, and increased susceptibility to depression, including bipolar disorder. Given the heavy academic workload and intense pressure, understanding students’ symptoms, personality traits, and coping mechanisms is crucial for enhancing their mental well-being. This study explored personality traits, bipolar depressive symptoms, and coping mechanisms among junior college students in a Chinese Polytechnic University through a descriptive quantitative method. It aimed to describe respondents’ profiles, determine differences and relationships among variables, and propose intervention plans. Survey questionnaire was administered to 375 respondents. The study highlighted a notable gender gap among respondents, emphasizing caution due to potential biases. Age-specific analysis is crucial given the majority falling within the 18-19 age range. Overrepresentation of first-year students and urban, public university attendees suggests caution in generalizing findings. Personality traits such as Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness, Friendliness, and Rigor are moderately assessed, indicating a balanced mix. The moderate total Bipolar Depression Rating Scale (BDRS) score suggests substantial but not extreme bipolar depression levels, with varied coping methods observed. Gender disparities in coping strategies and correlations between personality traits, bipolar depression, and coping underscore the need for tailored mental health support. Remarkable stability of Big-Five Personality Factors and BDRS scores across demographic profiles further strengthens these findings.
Keywords: psychological pressure, coping mechanisms, bipolar depression, personality traits, mental well-being
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsp.2024.012
Cite this article:
Chen, P., & Ma, X. (2024). Personality traits, bipolar depression symptoms, and coping mechanisms among Chinese junior college students. International Journal of Research Studies in Psychology, 10(1), 161-171. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsp.2024.012
* Corresponding Author