Psych 6393 Capstone: Causes And Effects

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Use this information to complete your written assignment on the Causes and Effects of a Research Problem. In 2–3 sentences, explain the problem for your Capstone Project: Cause #1: Effect #1: Reference Information for Cause #1: Reference Information for Effect #1: Cause #2: Effect #2: Reference Information for Cause #2: Reference Information for Effect #2: Cause #3: Effect #3: Reference Information for Cause #3: Reference Information for Effect #3:

Paper For Above instruction

The focus of this paper is to identify and analyze the causes and effects related to a specific research problem within the context of a Capstone Project in psychology. Understanding the causes that lead to a particular problem and the effects that arise from these causes is essential for developing effective interventions and solutions. This analysis relies heavily on scholarly literature to ensure that the identified causes and effects are supported by empirical evidence and theoretical frameworks.

Introduction

The process of addressing complex psychological problems necessitates a thorough exploration of their origins and consequences. The causes of a problem reveal the underlying factors that contribute to its existence, while the effects demonstrate the resulting impacts on individuals or systems. By systematically analyzing these causes and effects, researchers and practitioners can develop targeted strategies for prevention and intervention. In this paper, I will examine a specific research problem relevant to my Capstone project, identify three primary causes, and explore three corresponding effects, supported by scholarly sources.

Identifying the Problem

The problem addressed in this Capstone project centers around the increasing prevalence of clinical anxiety among college students. The rapid transition to remote learning, social isolation, and academic pressures have compounded stress levels, leading to heightened anxiety symptoms. This issue affects students' mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its causes and effects to inform effective interventions.

Cause #1: Academic Pressure

Academic pressure is a significant contributor to psychological distress among college students. The intense competition, high expectations, and workload often lead to stress and anxiety. According to Misra and McKean (2000), academic stress is directly linked to mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. The relentless pursuit of academic achievement can overwhelm students, resulting in decreased motivation and emotional exhaustion.

Reference for Cause #1: Misra, R., & McKean, M. (2000). College students’ academic stress and its relation to their anxiety, time management, and leisure satisfaction. American Journal of Health Studies, 16(1), 41–51.

Effect #1: Increased Anxiety Symptoms

The primary effect of academic pressure is an increase in anxiety symptoms among students. Elevated stress levels disrupt mental health, leading to behaviors such as difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and feelings of overwhelm. These symptoms can impair academic functioning and daily life, creating a cycle that exacerbates anxiety.

Reference for Effect #1: Brougham, R. R., et al. (2009). Stress, mental health and academic performance in a sample of college students. Canadian Journal of Higher Education, 39(1), 41–54.

Cause #2: Social Isolation

The abrupt shift to online learning and social distancing measures have led to increased social isolation among students. Isolation reduces social support networks, which are protective factors against mental health disorders (Hawkley & Cacioppo, 2010). This decreased social interaction can intensify feelings of loneliness and helplessness.

Reference for Cause #2: Hawkley, L. C., & Cacioppo, J. T. (2010). Loneliness matters: a theoretical and empirical review of consequences and mechanisms. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 40(2), 218–227.

Effect #2: Elevated Feelings of Loneliness and Depression

As a result of social isolation, students often experience heightened feelings of loneliness, which are strongly associated with depression. These emotional states can decrease motivation, increase dropout risk, and deteriorate overall mental health.

Reference for Effect #2: Cacioppo, J. T., & Hawkley, L. C. (2009). Perceived social isolation and cognition. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 13(10), 447–454.

Cause #3: Financial Stress

Many students face financial hardships due to job losses and increased expenses during the pandemic. Financial stress has been linked to psychological distress, including anxiety and depression (Ferguson et al., 2014). The uncertainty about paying for tuition, rent, and basic needs exacerbates mental health challenges.

Reference for Cause #3: Ferguson, E., et al. (2014). Financial stress and mental health among university students. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 12(2), 152–168.

Effect #3: Decline in Academic Performance and Well-being

Financial stress can impair concentration, reduce motivation, and contribute to mental health problems, collectively resulting in poorer academic performance and weakened overall well-being. Students experiencing financial strain may also forgo health resources, further exacerbating mental health concerns.

Reference for Effect #3: Auerbach, R. P., et al. (2018). Morbidity and mortality risk associated with mental health problems among college students. JAMA Pediatrics, 172(4), 369–371.

Conclusion

Understanding the causes and effects of the increasing anxiety among college students reveals critical targets for intervention. Academic pressure, social isolation, and financial stress are primary causes that evoke symptoms such as heightened anxiety, loneliness, and decreased well-being. Addressing these root causes can help develop effective strategies to improve mental health outcomes. Scholarly literature supports the interconnectedness of these factors and emphasizes the importance of comprehensive approaches in mental health intervention programs tailored for college students.

References

  • Misra, R., & McKean, M. (2000). College students’ academic stress and its relation to their anxiety, time management, and leisure satisfaction. American Journal of Health Studies, 16(1), 41–51.
  • Brougham, R. R., et al. (2009). Stress, mental health and academic performance in a sample of college students. Canadian Journal of Higher Education, 39(1), 41–54.
  • Hawkley, L. C., & Cacioppo, J. T. (2010). Loneliness matters: a theoretical and empirical review of consequences and mechanisms. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 40(2), 218–227.
  • Cacioppo, J. T., & Hawkley, L. C. (2009). Perceived social isolation and cognition. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 13(10), 447–454.
  • Ferguson, E., et al. (2014). Financial stress and mental health among university students. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 12(2), 152–168.
  • Auerbach, R. P., et al. (2018). Morbidity and mortality risk associated with mental health problems among college students. JAMA Pediatrics, 172(4), 369–371.

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