Post-Pandemic Effects on Psychological Well-Being of Students with Visual Impairment at Higher Education Level

Abstract

This study examined the impact of the post-pandemic period on the psychological well-being of students with visual impairment at the higher education level. A mixed methods research design with an explanatory approach was employed, consisting of two phases: quantitative and qualitative. The quantitative phase involved 102 purposively sampled students aged 18 to 32, who completed the Psychological Well-being Scale (PWS-42 items) for data collection. SPSS was used to analyze the quantitative data. In the qualitative phase, 10 students with low psychological well-being were selected for interviews. The findings indicated that 50% of students with visual impairment had a high level of psychological well-being, while the remaining 50% reported low to moderate levels. Male students reported higher well-being compared to female students. Among students aged 26-32, higher levels of autonomy, personal growth, and positive relationships were reported compared to those aged 18-25. Employment during Covid-19 was associated with better environmental mastery, while being a victim of the disease was linked to lower environmental mastery and self-acceptance. Common effects of the pandemic on the well-being of students with visual impairment included anxiety, depression, mental stress, isolation, loneliness, restrictions, financial problems, fear of death, technology barriers, and difficulties with online exams. Further research is needed to investigate important factors influencing the well-being of students with visual impairment and individuals with other disabilities.