Pedagogy and Professional Development

Staying Anxious or Being Optimistic? Understanding Apparel and Merchandising Students’ Psychological Well-Being During the Pandemic of COVID-19

---

Abstract

This study incorporated the theory of psychological well-being (PWB) proposed to explore college students’ coping strategies during the pandemic of COVID-19. The research questions are (1) what were the common environmental stressors for university students during the pandemic and (2) how did the university students respond to the pandemic and manage their school, work, and social lives while maintaining personal well-being during the unexpected shift in their routines? The findings show that most participants found ways to manage their lives and social relationships through the pandemic. The study identified four dimensions that participants had undergone during the process: (1) positive relationships with others, (2) personal growth, (3) environmental mastery, and (4) purpose in life. As the pandemic has continued to impact individuals’ lives at different levels, the results of the study suggested different areas that could be prioritized with further management and assistance from university administrators.

Keywords: psychological, well-being, coping, covid-19, students, PWB

How to Cite:

Yan, R. (., Tung, T. & Hsiao, Y., (2022) “Staying Anxious or Being Optimistic? Understanding Apparel and Merchandising Students’ Psychological Well-Being During the Pandemic of COVID-19”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 78(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.13792