Description of Stress Among Students Participating in the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Program

Abstract

While Indonesian students demonstrate enthusiasm for the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program, it is undeniable that they may encounter challenges during their participation. These challenges can stem from the program itself, the surrounding environment, or ongoing university academic activities. Consequently, students may experience physiological and psychological disturbances, potentially leading to stress. This research aims to descriptively explore the experiences of stress among MBKM students using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 16 research participants who are MBKM students from nine existing programs. Purposive sampling was employed, where participants were selected based on predetermined criteria. The findings revealed that MBKM students experience stress, manifesting in both physiological and psychological symptoms. Physiological symptoms included headaches, dizziness, and reduced sleep time. Psychological symptoms included task procrastination, increased alcohol consumption, irritability, worry or anxiety, and fear of program failure. This research emphasizes the importance of student preparedness for the program and informs potential revisions to the MBKM program by the government.

Keywords: MBKM program,student, stress