Perceived Stress, Coping Strategies, and Well-being of Unemployed Adults in Pakistan
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This study scrutinized the relationship between perceived stress, coping strategies, and well-being of unemployed adults in Pakistan. By using the purposive sampling technique, data were collected from 180 unemployed adults (men = 78%, women = 22%) within the age range of 20-40 years (M = 29.58, SD = 6.17 and M = 26.17, SD = 3.44 for men and women respectively). Urdu versions of the Perceived Stress Scale, Coping Strategies Questionnaire, and Mental Health Continuum-Short Form were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, Pearson product moment correlation, hierarchical multiple regression, and independent sample t-test. The findings indicated that perceived stress is significantly but negatively correlated with well-being in unemployed adults. Whereas, coping strategies and their types are significantly and positively correlated with well-being and its domains in such adults. Similarly, perceived stress significantly but negatively predicted well-being. Whereas, active-practical coping significantly and positively predicted well-being and its subscales. While, avoidance-focused significantly but negatively predicted the emotional well-being of unemployed adults. Significant gender differences were found in well-being, emotional well-being, and psychological well-being of these adults. Additionally, significant differences in the emotional well-being of single and married unemployed adults were found to exist. This study aimed to assist the mental health professionals in the sense that they could guide unemployed individuals regarding how to cope with stress caused by unemployment in an effective way. Moreover, it also helped in the implementation of proper interventional programs to introduce adaptive ways of coping. The study also helped policymakers in planning and implementing better strategies to manage this issue in Pakistan.
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