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Abstract

This study explores the landscape of academic stress and coping mechanisms among married postgraduate students within the Sunyani Municipality, spotlighting the multifaceted challenges these individuals encounter. It highlights the dual burden of academic and non-academic responsibilities, underscoring the significant role of financial constraints, time management issues, and emotional stressors. Through a qualitative research design, the study draws on in-depth interviews from a sample of married postgraduate students at the Catholic University College of Ghana now Catholic University of Ghana, revealing how these students navigate the complexities of balancing family life, academic obligations, and, in some instances, employment. The findings underscore financial stress as a paramount concern, with students grappling with the high costs associated with tuition fees, books, and transportation. Time management emerges as another critical challenge, as students strive to juggle their family responsibilities and academic duties effectively. Emotional stress, exacerbated by relationship dynamics and family member illnesses or losses, further complicates their academic journey. This study contributes to the existing body of literature by shedding light on the unique experiences of married postgraduate students in Ghana, an underexplored demographic in stress research. The study advocates for the development of targeted support mechanisms within academic institutions to address the distinctive challenges faced by this demographic. By understanding and mitigating the sources of stress for married postgraduate students, higher education institutions can enhance student well-being and academic success, fostering an environment that supports all students' diverse needs.

Keywords

Academic Stress Married Postgraduate Students Financial Constraints Time Management Support Systems

Article Details

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite
Kwasi Kusi, S., Kwame Affum, P. ., & Bright Fosu Kusi, I. . (2024). Balancing Acts: Developing Effective Support Systems for Married Postgraduate Students in Higher Education. Convergence Chronicles, 5(2), 28–44. https://doi.org/10.53075/Ijmsirq/655745678
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