Les croyances rationnelles et irrationnelles en lien avec le niveau de stress des étudiants confrontés à l'idée d'un échec aux examens universitaires

The results show that the presence of irrational beliefs related to the idea of failing an exam increases the risk of dispositional stress; i.e., internal aspects such as physical manifestations of stress, nervousness and feelings of panic. These beliefs also increase the risk of situational stress such as that related to external events and relationships with relatives. Girls are more at risk for both aspects of stress. Cognitive stress in this study was not related to any rational or irrational beliefs variables. Of particular interest are the stronger relationships between irrational beliefs and stress; rational beliefs were correlated inversely to stress but with a weaker relationship. This suggests that irrational beliefs are more predisposing to experiencing stress than rational beliefs might be a protective factor against stress. This last interpretation merits additional study as the relationship between experienced/perceived stress and rational/irrational beliefs has not been widely studies. Based on the four pillars of the Ellis theory these results can provide a basis for prevention and treatment for students facing difficulties with their exams.