Predicting Vulnerability to Stress Based on Social Support and Personality Traits

Background and Stress results from a specific event, situation, or transition that directly or indirectly threatens every one and prompts coping responses. The aim of this study was to investigate the variables of social support and personality traits as predictors of vulnerability to stress in university students. A descriptive–correlational study was designed in which all the students of Kharazmi, Islamic Azad and Payam Noor universities of Karaj in 2012-2013 academic year. Among the students 375 cases were selected through multi stage cluster sampling. Data was collected using Stress Syndrome Scale (SSI), Tests of social support (SS-A) and the Five Factor Personality Inventory (NEO-FFI). Data was analyzed using multiple regression method in SPSS V. 18. The variables of social support and personality traits predicted 47.2% vulnerability to stress. The variables of social support and personality traits can predict vulnerability to stress, so managing these factors could be of great benefit in reducing vulnerability of people to stress.