Abstract

The intent of this study was to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the well-being and subjective cognition in college students. The purpose of this study as well was to investigate if those who had tested positive for COVID-19 in the past had lower levels of subjective cognitive health and if students who were affected more during the pandemic experienced more disruptions to their wellbeing. Participants (N = 105) were recruited online via the Prolific platform and took part in an online survey administered on Qualtrics. A correlational analysis was performed to examine the effects of the pandemic, and broadly on wellbeing and subjective cognition. Results illustrated that students who endorsed more education-related COVID impacts (e.g., inability to join a club on campus) endorsed higher scores on the Perceived Stress Scale (r = 0.48, p < .001), lower scores on the PROMIS subjective cognition measure (r = -.40, p < .001), higher technostress scores on the communication overload subscale (r = .30, p = .005), and lower scores on the academic performance subscale (r = -.26, p = 0.011). This study found no significant difference in perceived stress scale scores amongst those who had and had not tested positive for COVID-19. The results highlight the need for interventions to support students' mental health and cognitive functioning during pandemics, focusing on reducing communication overload and enhancing academic performance. Furthermore, the findings may be useful in informing educational policies that prioritize student well-being during times of crisis.

Thesis Completion

2023

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Roque, Nelson

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Psychology

Degree Program

Psychology

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

11-15-2023

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Included in

Psychology Commons

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