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Thesis Information
Title: A Comparison Of The Impact Of Two College Health And Wellness Courses On Affect, Perceived Stress, And Cognitive Distortions
Program: Master of Science in Kinesiology
Advisor: Dr. Lynda Ransdell, Kinesiology
Committee Members: Dr. Yong Gao, Kinesiology and Dr. Eric Martin, Kinesiology
Abstract
Objective: To compare the impact of two 15-week health and wellness courses on mental health measures in college students. Participants: College student volunteers were recruited after enrolling in one of two 15-week health and wellness courses. Methods: The control course (N=19) had an ethical emphasis, and the experimental course (N=21) had a cognitive behavioral emphasis. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire and pre- and post-tests of the Perceived Stress Scale, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule-General Form, and the Cognitive Distortion Questionnaire. Pre- to Post-Changes were analyzed using a mixed model repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Both courses facilitated reduced negative affect, while maintaining positive affect. Perceived stress did not decline significantly. There was a significant interaction effect for cognitive distortions (CDs), with the control and experimental groups experiencing increased and decreased CDs, respectively. Conclusion: College health and wellness courses provide a convenient and effective mechanism for addressing the college student mental health crisis.