The mediating effect of psychological capital in the relationship between stress and college adjustment among nursing students in South Korea: a cross-sectional study

Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify the mediating effect of psychological capital on the relationship between stress and college adjustment in nursing students. Methods: This study was conducted using a descriptive, cross-sectional design. A sample of 284 nursing students was recruited from various South Korean universities. Data were collected through an online survey conducted from October 2021 to February 2022. The questionnaire used in this study included the Revised Life Stress Scale for College Students, the Psychological Capital Scale, the College Adjustment Scale, and general characteristics of nursing students. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25.0 and PROCESS macro version 4.1. Results: Stress exhibited significant direct and total effects on college adjustment. Additionally, psychological capital, the mediating variable, had a significant direct effect on college adjustment. Moreover, the indirect effect of stress on college adjustment through psychological capital was significant. Conclusion: It is necessary to develop strategies to strengthen nursing students’ psychological capital to reduce stress and facilitate successful college adjustment.