Impact of Part-Time Employment on Anxiety Level of University Students

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between part-time employment and anxiety levels among university students, with a particular emphasis on gender differences. A total of 80 participants, aged 19 to 25, from the University of Karachi, were recruited through convenience sampling. Anxiety levels were assessed using Beck’s Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and the number of hours worked per week was recorded. The results indicated a significant difference in anxiety levels between female (M = 27.73, SD = 6.24) and male students (M = 22.50, SD = 6.56), with females reporting higher levels of anxiety. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.9985) was found between the number of hours worked and anxiety levels, suggesting that increased work hours are associated with elevated anxiety. These findings support existing literature highlighting the compounded stressors faced by female students, such as societal expectations, caregiving roles, and academic pressures. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions, such as flexible work policies and stress management programs, to help students manage their academic and work responsibilities. Limitations of the study include the use of convenience sampling, self-reported data, and the correlational design, which prevent causal conclusions. Future research should utilize longitudinal designs, larger and more diverse samples, and control for additional variables influencing anxiety levels.