Exploration of self-concept and psychological distress in university students in the context of prolonged violence.

Abstract

This study aims to explore self-concept and psychological distress in university students, identify differences by sex and occupation, and correlate these variables in a context of prolonged violence. This was a quantitative, exploratory-inferential, cross-sectional study. Participants were 735 university students from Culiacán (227 men and 508 women). A sociodemographic questionnaire, a Form-5 Self-Concept Questionnaire, and a Psychological Distress Scale were administered. Students reported low emotional self-concept and high psychological distress, especially among women. There were statistically significant differences in general, emotional, family, and physical self-concept in favor of men. Those who study and work have higher emotional and social self-concept. A high self-concept correlates with low levels of psychological distress. It is important to provide psychoeducational support to students.