CHENXI RAO,PATCHARAPORN SRISAWAT,MONTHIRA CHARUPHENG
DOI: https://doi.org/This study examined the relationship between mental toughness, self-image, and anxiety among Chinese university students, aiming to identify the most influential predictor of anxiety to guide effective interventions. The rising prevalence of anxiety in university populations, particularly in collectivist societies like China, highlights the importance of internal psychological resources such as mental toughness and self-image for emotional stability. A total of 1,009 students from seven universities in Wuhan were selected through stratified random sampling. Quantitative data were gathered using adapted versions of the Mental Toughness Questionnaire (MTQ48), the Body Self-Image Questionnaire-Short Form, and the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS). Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple regression using SPSS. Findings revealed significant negative correlations between mental toughness and anxiety (p < 0.001) and between self-image and anxiety (p < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis identified mental toughness as the strongest predictor of anxiety (R = 0.164, Adjusted R² = 0.159, F = 38.802, p < 0.001). Based on these results, an integrated group counseling program was developed for a purposive sub-sample of students (n = 20) with moderate anxiety levels (SAS scores 50–69). The experimental group (n = 10) received a 10-session intervention, while the control group (n = 10) received no intervention. Post-test analysis showed a significant reduction in anxiety and a significant improvement in mental toughness in the experimental group (p < 0.001), with no significant changes in the control group. The study concludes that mental toughness plays a critical, modifiable role in reducing anxiety symptoms among university students. It recommends implementing campus-based integrated counseling programs that enhance mental resilience as a preventive and therapeutic strategy in higher education contexts.
