Stress and the City : Exploring perceptions of stress and what coping strategies are used among university students in the city of Tokyo, Japan

Abstract: Introduction and Aim Stress and how individuals cope with environmental stressors is an essential issue in urban settings, where expanding and densely developed artificial environments have negative effects on the psychosocial health of the urban population. The aim of this thesis was therefore to explore and identify environmental stressors and coping strategies among young adults.   Method Collection of data was made through five focus group discussions with four to five university students, between 20 to 30 years of age in Tokyo, Japan. The data was then further analyzed with thematic analysis.   Findings Three themes with sub-themes were identified from the thematic analysis, highlighting exposure of external pressures and stressors that threatens young adult’s capability in coping with these stressors on a daily basis. The study identified the urban environment, including transportation and crowds as main sources of stress. Furthermore, young adults in Tokyo expressed interpersonal relationships as a significant factor when coping with environmental stressors.   Conclusion The present study identifies several different and similar perceived stressful threats and coping strategies among young adults in Tokyo. Where potential stressful threats were created by person-environment transactions that determines how one can adapt and cope with these stressors. Further research on the subject of environmental stressors will be needed to further outline the relationship and influence of environmental stressors on individuals wellbeing and health.