The positive side of stress: exploring the factors that influence Generation Z's survival in tertiary education

Abstract

Eustress, a constructive form of stress, supports performance and health and is becoming increasingly important in academia. This research aims to examine the relationships among peer pressure, financial status, academic responsibility, and stress among Generation Z students in Negeri Sembilan. It is therefore necessary to appreciate its roots to proceed proactively with overhauling the student profile. A cross-sectional research design was adopted to conduct this study. 350 participants from various educational institutions in Negeri Sembilan were recruited, and data collection used a pre-tested, structured questionnaire. The data analysis used the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27, primarily for descriptive and regression analyses. The study revealed a positive correlation between eustress and the three investigated factors. Academic responsibility emerged as the most influential factor, with a weighted coefficient of 0.319. Peer pressure was closely followed by the previous result, with β = 0.303, indicating a positive impact on eustress. While positively related to eustress, financial status was less influential than other variables. These findings highlight the importance of supportive academic responsibilities and peer networks in fostering eustress. The study emphasizes the need for educational policies and practices that provide comprehensive, practical student support, particularly financial support.