Perceived Stress among Adolescents in Chennai Corporation Schools Across Demographic Variables

Abstract

The current study focuses on measuring perceived stress with respect to demographic variables among adolescents in Chennai’s corporation schools. Perceived stress refers to how individuals perceive and respond to stimulus events and whether they have confidence or belief in their ability to cope with external stress (Cohen et.al.,1983). Adolescence is a time of change and transformation; however, the way adolescents cope with stress has a particularly significant impact on their psychological health (WHO, 2022). This study used a descriptive survey method. Data were collected from 500 students selected through systematic random sampling from the Chennai Corporation High Secondary Schools. The PSS-10, a self-reported scale for measuring the global level of perceived stress (Cohen et al., 1983), was used to collect data. The results showed significant differences in perceived stress by gender, father’s educational level, and family income. Future studies should employ longitudinal designs to examine causal relationships and include more diverse samples to enhance their generalizability. Additionally, incorporating psychosocial variables and evaluating school-based interventions may provide deeper insights into stress and its management among adolescents.