Sensory Processing Sensitivity and Student Mental Health in the Netherlands: The Moderating Role of Self-Concept Clarity

Oostra, Nienke (2024) Sensory Processing Sensitivity and Student Mental Health in the Netherlands: The Moderating Role of Self-Concept Clarity. Bachelor thesis, Psychology.

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Abstract

Many students experience mental health complaints, which impacts important aspects of their lives. The motivation of this study is to identify specific risk factors for developing these complaints. Research shows that sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a potential risk factor for experiencing difficulties in mental well-being. However, these findings have not yet been tested within the Dutch student population. Self-concept clarity (SCC) might be an important factor that buffers the association between SPS and student mental health. In the current study we tested the following hypotheses: (H1) SPS is negatively associated with student mental health in the Netherlands and (H2) self-concept clarity buffers the negative association between SPS and student mental health in the Netherlands. The hypotheses were tested in a cross-sectional survey among students (N = 249). The survey contained measurements of mental health, SPS, and SCC. Results showed support for Hypothesis 1, suggesting that SPS is indeed negatively associated with student mental health in the Netherlands. The data does not support Hypothesis 2, suggesting that self-concept clarity does not buffer the negative association between SPS and student mental health in the Netherlands. Exploratory analysis revealed significant partial mediation of SCC. The results of this study show the importance of SPS for student mental health. Findings provide implications for early detection, prevention, and intervention efforts. Future research could further explore various moderating factors related to SCC and self-care, and investigate the mediating role of SCC within the relationship between SPS and student mental health.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor)
Supervisor name:	Dellen, S.A. van
Degree programme:	Psychology
Differentiation route:	None [Bachelor Psychology]
Date Deposited:	05 Jul 2024 11:49
Last Modified:	05 Jul 2024 11:49
URI:	http://gmwpublic.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/3689

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