University of Twente Student Theses
The Effect of Lifestyle Coaching on Stress Reduction : A Mixed-Methods Study
Pelzer, Jan (2024) The Effect of Lifestyle Coaching on Stress Reduction : A Mixed-Methods Study.
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Abstract: | This mixed-methods study evaluates the effect of lifestyle coaching provided by Topvorm Twente in reducing perceived stress among students and employees at the University of Twente. Guided by the Stress-Buffering Hypothesis and the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, it aims to determine the impact of lifestyle coaching on stress reduction. The hypothesis proposes that lifestyle coaching can significantly reduce perceived stress. A longitudinal within-subjects design was utilised involving 12 participants who completed the Perceived Stress Scale at baseline, four weeks, and eight weeks. A subset of three participants took part in semi-structured interviews. Quantitative analysis using linear mixed-effects model revealed no significant reduction in perceived stress over time (p = .93). However, thematic analysis identified themes of increased motivation, personalised feedback, and stress awareness, suggesting potential benefits not captured by the PSS. Technical and logistical challenges were noted as areas for improvement. These findings highlight the importance of mixed-methods approaches in understanding the nature of stress and the impact of lifestyle coaching, indicating the need for tailored interventions. Future research should include larger samples, longer duration study periods, and objective stress measures to further evaluate the effectiveness of lifestyle coaching in reducing stress. |
Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
Subject: | 77 psychology |
Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/102326 |
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