EXPLORING THE LEVEL PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS AND SOCIAL SUPPORT AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Authors

  • Abdul Karim M Phil Scholar Department of Psychology University of Karachi.
  • Muhmmad Asif Ph.D. Fellow, Department of Psychology, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Sciences & Technology, Karachi, Pakistan.
  • Akhtar Zaman Ph.D. Fellow, Department of Psychology, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
  • Muhammad Bilal Arif Ph.D. Fellow, Department of Psychology, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
  • Dr. Huma Mustafa Teaching Assistant, Faculty of Arts and Social Science, University of Karachi
  • Kahkashan Momal Ph.D. Fellow, Department of Psychology, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: University students often face a range of academic, social, and emotional stressors that may lead to psychological distress. In low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan, limited institutional mental health support further exacerbates this issue, making informal social support systems especially critical. This study investigates the level of psychological distress and social support among university students in Karachi, Pakistan, and examines demographic influences on these variables. Methods: A correlational, cross-sectional study was conducted among 261 students from various public and private universities in Karachi. Participants were selected using a random sampling technique. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) were used to measure perceived social support and psychological distress, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics by using SPSS. Results: The findings revealed that 49.4% of participants experienced very high psychological distress, while 29.1% experienced high distress. Although moderate to high levels of perceived social support were reported, no statistically significant difference was observed in social support levels based on students’ urban or rural background (p > .05). Despite this, psychological distress remained alarmingly prevalent, indicating a potential disconnect between perceived support and its effectiveness in reducing emotional strain. Conclusion:
While students perceive support from family, friends, and significant others, it may not sufficiently buffer against high psychological distress. The findings highlight the urgent need for structured mental health services and culturally sensitive support programs within Pakistani universities. These initiatives should address both the quality and accessibility of support to promote psychological well-being among students.

Keywords
Perceived social support, psychological distress, university students, MSPSS, K10, Pakistan, urban-rural comparison, student mental health

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Published

2025-05-01

How to Cite

Abdul Karim, Muhmmad Asif, Akhtar Zaman, Muhammad Bilal Arif, Dr. Huma Mustafa, & Kahkashan Momal. (2025). EXPLORING THE LEVEL PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS AND SOCIAL SUPPORT AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS. Journal for Current Sign, 3(2), 14–29. Retrieved from http://currentsignjournal.com/index.php/JCS/article/view/125

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 2 (2025): Journal for Current Sign

Section

Articles