Family Support as a Protective Factor for Mental Health among Indian College Students Residing Away from Home

Abstract

The present study examines the role of family support as a protective factor for mental health among Indian college students residing away from home. With increasing academic mobility, students face emotional, social, and psychological challenges. Family support may act as a buffer against such stressors. A quantitative cross-sectional design was used with a sample of 35 participants aged of 18-22 years. Data were collected using Family Environment Scale (FES) and Mental Health Battery (MHB). Correlational and Regression analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between family support and mental health. The findings suggest that family support contributes to better psychological well-being, although other contributing factors also exist.