Poster 18

Happiness and Well-Being During Unexpected Life Events

Marlin Marte and Natalia Torres

This study investigates the different coping styles used by college students experiencing the present transition to distance learning in relation to their well-being and happiness. Previous research suggests that coping behavior is related to well-being such that as individuals experience positive and negative events in their lives, the impact on well-being can be related to their coping skills (Hall, 1997). During the COVID-19 pandemic in April 2020, one hundred and nine college students were recruited remotely and completed an online survey that measured coping resources, social support, and self-efficacy. The findings in the present study support past studies in the claim that coping behaviors are related to well-being. Individuals who possessed greater active and problem-focused coping reported higher levels of well-being and happiness. In examining denial coping styles, participants showed lower levels of happiness, well-being, and self-efficacy. Reliance on substance use was also found to be related to lower personal well-being. The findings show that the behaviors one uses to cope with stress are extremely important to your feelings of happiness and personal well-being.

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