Stress Management for College Students: An Experiential Multi-Modal Approach

ABSTRACT

This quasi-experimental study evaluated the effectiveness of a multi-modal experiential stress management course for college students. Experiential approaches included yoga, mindfulness hiking, and equine-assisted stress management activities. Univariate analysis of covariance revealed significantly lower perceived stress for the experimental group at the conclusion of the stress management course. Repeated measures univariate analysis of variance revealed that the stress management course significantly reduced present moment stress over time and that equine-assisted activities were as effective as yoga and mindfulness hiking in reducing student stress.

KEYWORDS:

• Animal-assisted therapy
• college students
• creativity in counseling
• equine-assisted
• experiential activities
• mindfulness
• stress management
• wellness
• yoga

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Barbara M. Morgan

Barbara M. Morgan is Associate Professor of Psychology and Equine Therapy Certificate Coordinator in the Social Sciences, Humanities, and English Division at Richard Bland College, Petersburg, Virginia.