Cultural Challenges, Level of Anxiety and Coping Strategies in Disciplined Training Among Maritime

Abstract

This study examined the cultural challenges, level of anxiety, and coping strategies among maritime students undergoing disciplined training. The research aimed to determine the extent of cultural challenges in terms of behavioral, socio-cultural, and emotional adjustment; assess the level of anxiety across physiological, cognitive, and emotional domains; and identify the coping strategies employed by maritime students, including problem-focused, emotion-focused, and maladaptive coping. A descriptive-correlational research design was utilized, employing a structured survey questionnaire administered to maritime students. Data were analyzed using weighted mean to determine the level and pattern of responses across the identified variables.

Findings revealed that respondents experienced a high level of cultural challenges, with behavioral adjustment emerging as the most dominant domain, followed by socio-cultural and emotional adjustment. In terms of anxiety, results indicated an overall Moderate level; Sources of anxiety came from Physiological, Emotional, and Cognitive symptoms. Regarding coping strategies, respondents demonstrated a high level of both problem-focused and emotion-focused coping, indicating the use of adaptive strategies such as planning, acceptance, and active problem-solving. Maladaptive coping strategies were found to be generally low, although occasional disengagement and reduced effort were observed.

The study concludes that maritime students are generally capable of adapting to disciplined training environments despite experiencing cultural challenges and varying levels of anxiety. Their reliance on adaptive coping strategies plays a significant role in managing stress and maintaining psychological stability. However, the presence of anxiety among respondents suggests the need for targeted psychological support and institutional interventions to further enhance student well-being and adaptation.