Perceived problem solving, stress, and health among college students.
OBJECTIVE
To study the relationships among perceived problem solving, stress, and physical health.


METHODS
The Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ), Personal Problem solving Inventory (PSI), and a stress-related physical health symptoms checklist were used to measure perceived stress, problem solving, and health among undergraduate college students (N = 232).


RESULTS
Perceived problem-solving ability predicted self-reported physical health symptoms (R2 = .12; P < .001) and perceived stress (R2 = .19; P < .001).


CONCLUSIONS
Perceived problem solving was a stronger predictor of physical health and perceived stress than were physical activity, alcohol consumption, or social support. Implications for college health promotion are discussed.
Largo-Wight
Erin
E
University of Florida, Department of Health Education and Behavior, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA. elargo@ufl.edu
Peterson
P Michael
PM
Chen
W William
WW
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011340:Problem Solving; D012650:Self Disclosure; D013315:Stress, Psychological; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D014495:Universities