Difference between the Coping Mechanisms of Psychology and Non-Psychology Students

Abstract

This study investigated the differences in coping mechanisms between psychology and non- psychology students, as well as between male and female students, using the Brief COPE Inventory. Data were collected from 200 students (100 psychology and 100 non-psychology) aged 18-25, assessing problem-focused, emotion-focused, and avoidant-focused coping strategies. Results revealed no significant differences in problem-focused coping (t = 0.501, p > .05) or emotion-focused coping (t = 0.116, p > .05) between psychology (M = 21.32, M = 28.83) and non-psychology students (M = 21.66, M = 28.92). A trend was observed in avoidant- focused coping, where non-psychology students scored higher (M = 16.01) than psychology students (M = 15.01), though this was not statistically significant (t = 1.812, p = .071). Gender differences were also non-significant across all coping styles, with no significant differences found in problem-focused (t = 0.442, p > .05), emotion-focused (t = 0.052, p > .05), or avoidant- focused coping (t = 1.740, p = .083). These findings suggest that neither academic background nor gender significantly influences coping mechanisms, supporting the need for universal mental health interventions for students. Further research is recommended to explore the observed trends in avoidant coping.