Coping Strategies and Behavioral Responses as Predictors of Stress Management: A Correlational Study with Policy Implications for Higher Education Leadership

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Published: 2025-09-09
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5944/vol28n3a259
Keywords:
Directores académicos, Estrategias de afrontamiento, Respuestas conductuales, Informe de políticas, Manejo del estrés

Main Article Content

Dr. John Michael Aquino
Laguna state polytechnic university
Dr. Jeffrey Garcia
Laguna state polytechnic university
Engr. Manuel Luis Alvarez
Laguna state polytechnic university
Dr. Maria Rossa Agatha Medel
Laguna state polytechnic university
Dr. Maria Rellie Kalacas
Laguna state polytechnic university
Dr. Merly Arjona
Laguna state polytechnic university-Siniloan campus
Mr. Bernardo Lirio II
Southern Luzon State University-Tiaong Campus
Dr. Julie Rose Mendoza
Laguna State Polytechnic University

Abstract

Academic heads in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) face complex stressors that require effective coping strategies and adaptive behavioral responses to maintain leadership well-being and institutional performance. This study assessed the level of coping strategies, behavioral responses, and stress management practices of academic heads in CALABARZON SUCs, and examined the relationships among these factors. Using a descriptive-correlational design with a validated survey questionnaire was used to collect data from 115 academic heads across five SUCs. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlations determined the extent of coping strategies, behavioral responses, and their relationship to stress management. Results showed that respondents demonstrated high levels of coping strategies, notably in delegating tasks, time management, and setting clear goals. Behavioral responses reflected both positive adaptations, such as increased focus and help-seeking, and less adaptive reactions like withdrawal and irritability. Stress management practices were consistently high, highlighting strengths in mindfulness, cognitive strategies, and resilience-building. Correlational analyses confirmed significant relationships between coping strategies and stress management, and between behavioral responses and stress management. These findings affirm that coping strategies and behavioral responses are key predictors of effective stress management for academic leaders. The study recommends structured policies on wellness programs, counselling services, professional development, and leadership mentoring to strengthen resilience and support a healthy leadership culture in higher education

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Article Details

Issue

Vol. 28 No. 3 (2025): Paper in press

Section

Higher Education
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.

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