Emotional Adjustment and Coping Strategies of University of Cape Coast Freshmen, Ghana

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the emotional adjustment challenges freshmen in the University of Cape Coast experience during their first year in school and their coping strategies in response to these challenges. The study adopted a mixed-methods model. 355 students made up of 235 males and 120 females were selected using purposive and proportional stratified random sampling techniques. Data were collected using questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. Quantitative data was analysed descriptively while qualitative data was analysed thematically. The study revealed that freshmen in the University of Cape Coast had issues handling stress, anxiety, sleep and their weight within their first few weeks in the university. Also, the most used category of coping strategies by freshmen in their first few weeks in the university was Planful Problem Solving. It was recommended that authorities of University of Cape Coast work through the University Counselling Centre to organize seminars for students to equip them with skills to manage stress and anxiety issues during their first few weeks in the University.