The Lifestyle Triad and Psychological Resilience: A Multidimensional Analysis of Stress, Personality Traits, And Health Behaviors Among Higher Education Students
Keywords:
Lifestyle Triad, Academic Stress, Dark Triad, Psychological DistressAbstract
This research investigates the complex interplay between the "Lifestyle Triad"-comprising stress levels, dietary habits, and exercise patterns-and their relationship with fundamental personality structures and psychological distress in the university population. As higher education environments become increasingly competitive, the prevalence of academic stress has emerged as a significant determinant of long-term mental health outcomes. This study utilizes a multidisciplinary theoretical framework, incorporating the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory and the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, to examine how students navigate the pressures of tertiary education. By synthesizing data from established psychometric scales, including the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), the research explores the correlation between the "Dark Triad" of personality (Narcissism, Machiavellianism, and Psychopathy) and health-seeking behaviors. Furthermore, the study evaluates the role of the HEXACO and Five-Factor models in predicting resilience and burnout. Findings suggest a significant tripartite association: high stress levels frequently correlate with poor nutritional choices and sedentary behavior, creating a self-perpetuating cycle of psychological vulnerability. The article concludes with a critical analysis of institutional interventions, advocating for comprehensive wellness initiatives that address the nutritional, physical, and psychological dimensions of student life to mitigate the rising tide of burnout and distress in global academic settings.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Jessica Sutherland (Author)
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
