The relationship between depression and procrastination among master’s level students

Abstract

This study explores the intricate relationship between depression and procrastination among master's level students. Depression, characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and impaired daily functioning, has been found to correlate with procrastination, a habitual deferral of tasks despite knowing its detrimental consequences. The study investigates how depression leads to procrastination in academic settings, particularly among postgraduate students, and examines whether procrastination exacerbates depressive symptoms, creating a cyclical relationship. A quantitative research method was employed, utilizing questionnaires based on Becks Depression Inventory (BDI) and Lay Procrastination Scale (PCS). A total of 305 postgraduate students from diverse academic backgrounds participated in the study. It was conducted among 305 students currently enrolled in a master’s degree program with the sample of 154 female students and 151 male students. Utilizing quantitative methods, the research surveyed students from various academic backgrounds through an online questionnaire assessing levels of depression and procrastination. An independent samples t-test for procrastination and depression along with ANOVA was carried out to find the relationship between depression and procrastination, along with other variables such as age, sex and academic semester. The results indicate no significant correlations between procrastination and depression. Similarly, no findings revealed variations in depression and procrastination levels based on gender, age, and academic semester. The study contributes to the understanding of mental health in educational settings, highlighting the need for psychological support to mitigate the effects of these interrelated issues on student success. Keywords: depression, procrastination, master’s level students