The Relationship between Personal Identity Crisis and Psychological Stress among Saigon University Students

Linh Nguyen Dieu; Nhu Tran Lam Nguyen; Tuân Văn

doi:10.59890/ijeps.v4i3.361

Authors

Linh Nguyen Dieu Saigon University
Nhu Tran Lam Nguyen Saigon University
Tuân Văn Saigon University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59890/ijeps.v4i3.361

Keywords:

Identity Crisis, Psychological Stress, Students, Saigon University, Vietnam

Abstract

The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between personal identity crisis and psychological stress among university students, thereby providing a practical basis for psychological support interventions within the university setting. This quantitative study was conducted on a sample of 352 Saigon University students selected through convenience non-probability sampling. Research data were collected using self-report questionnaires. The survey results indicated that the identity foreclosure status was predominant (accounting for over 50%) compared to other statuses in both the ideological identity and interpersonal identity domains. Conversely, the identity achievement status accounted for a negligible proportion (below 3% in both domains). This suggests that, in terms of both personal ideology and social relationships, students remain significantly influenced by family and peers without having a clearly defined orientation. The survey results also showed that the majority (55.7%) of students experienced psychological stress at various levels, with severe level accounting for 16.2% and extremely severe level accounting for 8.2%. A personal identity crisis had a positive impact on psychological stress among students. These findings suggest that universities need to attend to and implement effective psychological support measures to assist a segment of students in overcoming personal identity crises, thereby contributing to the management of psychological stress among students.

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