Academic Self-Efficacy and Procrastination as Predictors of Mental Health among University Students: A Quantitative Study

Abstract

This quantitative research explored the relationships among academic self-efficacy, procrastination, and mental health among university students, as well as the predictive roles of academic self-efficacy and procrastination in psychological distress. A total of 300 students participated in the study, drawn from various academic disciplines and levels of study across public and private sector universities in Lahore and Sialkot. The research utilized a cross-sectional correlational design, and participants were selected through purposive and convenience sampling methods. Standardized measures, including the Academic Self-Efficacy Scale, the Tuckman Procrastination Scale (TPS), and the DASS-21, were administered alongside a demographic questionnaire. The data were analyzed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 21). The correlational analysis results showed that academic self-efficacy had a significant negative correlation with procrastination, depression, anxiety, and stress, whereas procrastination exhibited significant positive correlations with all indicators of mental health. Multiple regression analysis revealed that academic self-efficacy was a negative predictor of psychological distress, while procrastination served as a positive predictor, together accounting for 27% of the variance in mental health. Gender analysis indicated that male students reported higher levels of academic self-efficacy and procrastination, while female students experienced significantly greater levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. The findings of this study highlight the importance of strengthening academic self-efficacy and reducing procrastination to promote better mental health among university students. Higher education institutions can use these results to develop targeted interventions such as academic skills training, time-management workshops, and counseling services to help students build confidence and manage academic pressures more effectively.