The Role of Psychological Capital in Reducing Academic Stress among Undergraduate Students

Sridevi C. M.

Abstract: Academic stress has become a major concern among undergraduate students due to increasing academic demands, competitive learning environments, and heightened expectations from parents and institutions. Prolonged academic stress negatively affects students? mental health, emotional well-being, and academic performance. Psychological Capital (PsyCap)-a positive psychological construct comprising hope, self-efficacy, resilience, and optimism?has emerged as an important internal resource that enhances individuals? ability to cope with challenges. The present study examines the relationship between PsyCap and academic stress among undergraduate students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 180 students using the Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ-24) and the Academic Stress Scale. The findings revealed a significant negative relationship between PsyCap and academic stress, indicating that students with higher levels of hope, resilience, optimism, and self-efficacy experience lower levels of academic pressure. Regression analysis further identified resilience and hope as the strongest predictors of reduced academic stress. These results suggest that strengthening PsyCap may help mitigate stress and enhance students? coping abilities. The study highlights the need for educational institutions to adopt PsyCap-based training, counseling programs, and positive psychological interventions to promote student well-being, academic engagement, and overall performance.

Keywords: Psychological Capital, Academic Stress, Hope, Resilience

How to Cite?: Sridevi C. M., "The Role of Psychological Capital in Reducing Academic Stress among Undergraduate Students", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1567-1570, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251123212502, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251123212502