Relationship of Homesickness with Self-Esteem and Academic Performance among Hostellers Students

Abstract

Background: Homesickness is a common emotional challenge faced by students living in hostels, often impacting their self-esteem and academic performance. While hostel life promotes independence and growth, it can also introduce psychological stressors that affect students’ overall well-being.

Objective: To assess the association between homesickness, self-esteem, and academic performance among female hosteller students at Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS), Jamshoro.

Methodology: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 306 female students residing in hostels at LUMHS. Data were collected using standardized tools, including the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Utrecht Homesickness Scale (UHS), and Academic Performance Scale (APS), along with students’ CGPA records. Non-parametric statistical tests, including Spearman’s rho, were used due to the non-normal distribution of the data.

Results: The majority of participants (50.32%) reported moderate levels of homesickness, while 55.88% had higher self-esteem and 71.56% exhibited excellent academic performance based on CGPA. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a moderate positive correlation between self-esteem and academic performance (rs = .312, p = .001), a moderate negative correlation between homesickness and academic performance (rs = –.298, p = .002), and a moderate negative correlation between homesickness and self-esteem (rs = –.361, p = .000). All results were statistically significant at p < .01.

Conclusion: The study concluded that higher self-esteem is associated with better academic performance, while greater homesickness is linked to lower self-esteem and academic achievement. These findings highlight the importance of emotional support systems, counseling services, and peer mentorship programs to promote psychological adjustment and academic success among hostel-residing students.