Author: Hira Jamil
Supervisor: Tehreem Arshad
Degree: BS
Year: 2009-2013
University: Institute of Applied Psychology, Punjab University, Lahore, Pakistan
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to find out the relationship between perceived stress, coping strategies and psychological distress among homeless women. In the present study four hypotheses were made. Firstly, it was hypothesized that there will be a relationship between perceived stress and coping strategies among homeless women. Secondly, it was hypothesized that there will be a relationship between coping strategies and psychological distress among homeless women. Thirdly, it was hypothesized that there will be a relationship between perceived stress and psychological distress among homeless women. Lastly, it was hypothesized that there will be a predictive relationship between perceived stress, coping strategies and psychological distress. A sample of 100 homeless women with age range 25-50 (M age= 37.5) was selected from Homeless Institutes as Darul Aman, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Center, Dastak, Jannat-ul-Firdous and Social Welfare Complex (Dar ul Falah). Perceived Stress Scale (Cohen, 1988), Coping Strategies Questionnaire (Kausar & Munir, 2004), and Kessler Psychological Distress scale (Kessler, 2002) were administered in order to assess homeless woman’s perceived stress, coping strategies and psychological distress respectively. The correlation analysis showed a significant relationship between perceived stress, coping strategies (avoidance focused coping and active distractive coping) and psychological distress. Furthermore, regression analysis suggested perceived stress and coping strategies (avoidance focused coping and active distractive coping) as strong predictors of psychological distress among homeless women. The current research would recommend the policy makers to look into social issue and provide better long term care to homeless women residing in homeless institutes.
Keywords: Perceived Stress, Coping Strategies, Psychological Distress, Homeless Women.
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Corresponding Address: Department of Applied Psychology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan. Email: chairperson@appsy.pu.edu.pk, Phone: 92-42-9231245
