P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

“Measuring the State of Wellness among BSOA Students in

Polytechnic University of the Philippines”

An Undergraduate Thesis Proposal to the Faculty of the

College of Business Administration
Department of Office Administration

In partialPartial Fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Fundamentals of Research
of Bachelor of Science in Office Administration
Major in Legal Transcription

Antecristo, Mary Grace P.

Etcoy. Lota Kean P.
Gapayao, Fayme Gabrielle T.
Gludo, Ruela A.
Motos, Jeffrey P.
Ramos, Rona O.

BSOALT 3-1
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CHAPTERChapter I

PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

Wellness is defined in multiple ways throughout the literature. Early

development of wellness produced definition as “a conscious and deliberate

approach to an advance state of physical, psychological, and spiritual health”. As

wellness research developed, wellness was proposed to be “a multidimensional

state of being describing the positive health of an individual”. The most general

definition of wellness involves an individual’s sense of wellbeing useful in

advancing them toward an improve quality of life.

Wellness is the search for enhanced quality of life, personal growth, and

potential through well-being positive lifestyle behaviors and attitude. If we take

responsibility for our own health and well-being, we can improve our health. The

pursuit of health, personal growth, and improved quality of life relies on living a

balanced life. To achieve balance, we need to care for our mind, body and spirit.

Models of wellness are having been developed to determine the dimensional

aspects and provide structure for quantifying levels of wellness. The most

dimensions used to examine wellness are psychological, emotional, social,

physical, spiritual and intellectual.

Maintaining an optimal level of wellness is absolutely crucial to live a higher

quality life. Wellness matters. Wellness matters because everything we do and

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every emotion we feel relates to our well-being. In turn, our well-being directly

affects our actions and emotions. It’s an ongoing circle. Therefore, it is important

for everyone to achieve optimal wellness in order to subdue stress, reduce the risk

of illness and ensure positive interactions. (Student Health and Counseling

Services) For students, optimum health and wellness can have a positive impact

on academic success. In addition, many of the activities that keep students healthy

can also improve mental focus, decrease stress, and improve the quality of study

time. (Oregon State University)

The main objective of this study is to find out the BSOA students’ state of

wellness by determining the 6D aspects; psychological, emotional, social, physical,

spiritual and intellectual.

The professional demands of Bachelor of Science in Office Administration

(BSOA) students encompass a wide variety of skills including: keyboarding,

shorthand, stenography, computer literacy, communication skills, and interpersonal

skills. The challenging workload often consumes the day, energy, emotions and

mental capacity of an individual. Conflict due to the demands of study can arise

leaving lasting effects in these other areas of life.

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Background of the Study

According to The World Health Organization, “Wellness is a state of

complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of

disease or infirmity”. It is also an active process of becoming aware of and making

choices

toward a more successful existence. The key words in this first sentence are

process, aware, and choices. Process means that we never arrive at a point where

there is no possibility of improving. Aware means that we are by our nature

continuously seeking more information about how we can improve. Choices mean

that we have considered a variety of options and select those that seem to be in our

best interest (National Wellness Institute).

Research shows that students have the best chance to succeed when they

are healthy. “Health” in this context includes a nutritious diet, physical activity,

emotional well-being, safety and a sense of security, absence of chronic conditions

such as asthma or diabetes, and access to physical/mental health services. In the

long run, unhealthy behavior interferes with a student's education and an

individual's quality of life (Walid El Ansari, 2010) It has been argued that health is an

important factor for academic achievement in higher education (Tsouros, A.D et al,

1998). Promoting the health and well-being of all members means promoting

effective learning (O ‘Donnell, T, et al, 1993). It is widely accepted that health and

well-being are essential elements for effective learning (Novello, A.C, et al, 1992).
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Unhealthy lifestyle and educational challenges may influence each other, or

have common root causes. Health is an excellent indicator for the academic

success of students that is an excellent indicator for the overall wellbeing of youth

(Marwa Omar Abd El-Kader et al, 2013). Maintaining an optimal level of wellness is

absolutely crucial to live a higher quality life. Wellness matters. Wellness matters

because everything we do and every emotion we feel relates to our well-being. In

turn, our well-being directly affects our actions and emotions. It’s an ongoing circle.

Therefore, it is important for everyone to achieve optimal wellness in order to

subdue stress, reduce the risk of illness and ensure positive interactions

(https://shcs.ucdavis.edu/wellness/what-is-wellness).

Theoretical Framework

Wheel of Wellness is a theoretical model developed by Sweeney and Witmer

(1991; 1992) and Sweeney, Witmer and Myers (1998) is one of the first models of

wellness based in counseling. Sweeney, Witmer and Myers states that wellness

refers to a holistic approach in which mind, body, and spirit are integrated. It is a

way of life oriented toward optimal health and well-being in which body, mind, and

spirit are integrated in a purposeful manner with a goal of living life more fully

(2000). The Wheel of Wellness illustrates a wellness model with six dimensions:

psychological, emotional, social, physical, spiritual and intellectual. All of the six

dimensions are interconnected and important to a well-rounded and balanced

lifestyle. This model helps the researcher attempt to determine our well-being. It
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demonstrates the need for balanced and well-rounded lives so in order to attain

and maintain the optimal wellness we must pay attention to each of the

dimensional aspects of wellness. To neglect or over emphasize any of the

dimensions will result in an out-of-balance (out-of-round) wellness wheel.

Six-Dimensional Model of Wellness developed by Bill Hettler (1979) is a

wellness paradigm that integrates the six dimensions of wellness (psychological,

emotional, social, physical, spiritual and intellectual) that can be used as a guideline

of improving life in order to lead a vital, fulfilling, well rounded life. Each of these

dimensions is interconnected and play a vital role in an individual’s total wellness,

when one or more dimension is missing there must be an imbalance in life. The

six-dimensional model of wellness helps the researchers to determine a balanced

or outbalanced level of wellness as well as to promote total wellness.

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Conceptual Framework
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The figure shows the conceptual model which directed the researchers in the

conduct of their study.

FEEDBACK
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INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

1. Respondents' 1. Descriptive 1. Determined

Profile research wellness of BSOA
-Year level? students in their six-
dimensional aspect:
2. Statistical psychological,
-Age? Treatment emotional, social,
-Gender? -percentage, physical, spiritual
frequency, weighted and intellectual.
mean, standard
2. Assessment in deviation,and one-
their wellness in way ANOVA.
terms of:
-Psychological
Aspect
-Emotional Aspect
-Social Aspect
-Physical Aspect
-Spiritual Aspect
-Intellectual Aspect

Figure 1: Conceptual Paradigm of the Study

Figure 1 shows the Input (I), the Process (P), and the Output (O), these variables

are the components of inquiry. The Input includes the respondents’ profile, and the

assessment of their wellness in terms of the six dimensions. The Process consists

of the analyses of the data gathered through descriptive survey and statistical
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treatment using percentage, frequency, weighted mean, standard deviation, and

one-way ANOVA to arrive at the results of the study. The Output shows the result

of the process information and the target system. This is composed of,

Determined wellness of BSOA students in their six-dimensional aspect:

psychological, emotional, social, physical, spiritual and intellectual.

Statement of the Problem

The purpose of the study is to determine the perceived wellness among the

students of BSOA A.Y. 2016-2017 through the six-dimensional aspects:

psychological, emotional, social, physical, spiritual, and intellectual.

Specifically, this study sought to answer the following questions:

1. What is the socio-demographic profile of the respondents in terms of:

a. Year Level;
b. Age;
c. Gender?

2. How do the respondents assess their wellness in terms of:

a. Psychological Aspect;
b. Emotional Aspect;
c. Social Aspect;
d. Physical Aspect;
e. Spiritual Aspect;
f. Intellectual Aspect?

3. Is there any significant difference among the perceived six-dimensional

aspects of wellness among BSOA students in terms of socio-demographic

profile?
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Hypothesis of the Study

There is no significant difference among the perceived six-dimensional

aspects of wellness among BSOA students in terms of socio-demographic profile.

Significance of the Study

This study aimed to determine the state of wellness in terms of psychological,

physical, emotional, spiritual, social, and Intellectual dimensions which can be a

learning paradigm to enhance and to know the importance of achieving holistic

wellness. The result of the study will be beneficial to the following:

BSOA Students. Students may improve academic competence; develop

employability skills without sacrificing their wellness. Students may overcome

stress and having very well outcome and positive outlook in life. BSOA students

may help them carry out duties not just in school but also to their communities. In

addition, they may be able to promote good impression to others.

Department of Office Administration. Improved students may contribute to the

department’s competencies. It is also one way to make the department aware on

the weaknesses and strength, psychologically, emotionally, socially, physically,

spiritually, and intellectually.

Polytechnic University of the Philippines. The result of the study will provide

new information to every individual who belongs in the university.

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Future Researchers. The result of the study, may serve as a reference for the

future researchers who will conduct related studies for further investigations using

other variables.

Scope and Limitations

The respondents of this study are limited to Bachelor of Science in Office

Administration A.Y. 2016-2017 in Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Sta.

Mesa, Manila students only. This research has 195 respondents from second year

to third year students. This study only focuses on determining the respondents’

state of wellness in six-dimensional aspects which consists of psychological,

emotional, social, physical, spiritual, and intellectual.

Definition of Terms

BSOA Students. Refers to the students taking the four-year degree program,

Bachelor of Science in Office Administration, in Polytechnic University of the

Philippines.

Emotional Wellness. Addresses awareness and acceptance of our own feelings

and the feelings of others. This dimension involves feeling positive and

enthusiastic about life and ourselves, and being comfortable with self- expression.

Holistic Wellness. For the purpose of this research, Holistic Wellness refers to a

balance between all six dimensions of Hettler’s Wellness Model.

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Intellectual Wellness. A state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or

her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively

and fruitfully, and is able to contribute to his or her community.

Physical Wellness. Refers to the ability to maintain a healthy quality of life that

allows us to get the most out of our daily activities without undue fatigue or physical

stress.

Respondent. A person who gives a response or answer to a question that is

asked especially as part of a survey.

Spiritual Wellness. Refers to the personal matter involving values and beliefs that

provides a purpose in our lives.

Social Wellness. Refers to one's ability to interact with people around them. It

involves using good communications skills, having meaningful relationships,

respecting yourself and others, and creating a support system that includes family

members and friends.

Well-being. Refers to the condition of an individual or group, for example their

social, economic, psychological, spiritual or medical state; a high level of well-being

means in some sense the individual or group's condition is positive, while low well-

being is associated with negative happenings.

Wellness. Refers to an active process of becoming aware of and making choices

toward a healthy and fulfilling life. Wellness is more than being free from illness. It

is a dynamic process of change and growth.

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Chapter 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

In this chapter, the research literature and studies deemed by the author to be

most relevant to the purpose of this study is summarized. This literature review is

intended to provide an overview of what is wellness in the different scholars’

perspectives, and followed by discussions of various wellness models as the first

section. The second and last section presents the factors that contribute to

wellness.

Foreign Literature

Countless definitions of wellness exist. Wellness was first coined in 1961 by

Dunn, who is widely credited as being the “founding parent wellness” defined it as

“an integrated method of functioning which is oriented toward maximizing the

potential of which the individual is capable” (as cited in Myers & Williard, 2003).

Hettler (1984) viewed wellness as a process of becoming aware of toward a

more successful existence. Ardell’s (1996) view of wellness is similar to Hettler’s

definition. He defines wellness as a proactive approach to life that optimizes one’s

potential (Ardell, 2003). Archer, Probert and Gage (1987) defined wellness as “the

process and a state of a quest for maximum human functioning that involves the

mind, body, and spirit”. According to Hatfield (1992), wellness is “a process that
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involves the striving for balance and integration in one’s life, adding and refining

skills, rethinking previous beliefs and stances toward issues as appropriate”.

More recently, Myers, Sweeney and Witmer (2000) defined wellness as:

“A way of life oriented toward optimal health and well-being in which body,

mind, and spirit are integrated by the individual to live life more fully within

the human and natural community. Ideally, it is the optimum state of health

and well-being that each individual is capable of achieving.”

All the definitions of wellness presented here are similar in that wellness is

conceptualized as a multidimensional, dynamic, and proactive philosophy (Myers,

1991). This philosophy has been operationalized in models of wellness and many

attempts have been done to propose a wellness model in order to explain the

factors that enhance healthy functioning. The most frequently cited models in the

literature were developed by Ardell (1985), Hettler (1984), Adams, Bezner, Garner,

et al. (1998), and Myers, Sweeney and Witmer (1991,2000).

Donald B. Ardell, PhD, has developed a series wellness models. His first

model was “The Original Wellness Model”. This model emphasized self-

responsibility and stress management through five broad dimensions in a simple

circle: (1) self-responsibility, (2) nutritional awareness, (3) stress awareness and

management, (4) physical fitness, and (5) environmental sensitivity. Self-

responsibility is in the center of that circle, bordered by the other dimensions (High

Level of Wellness, 1977).

In 1982, Ardell revised his model and named this new model as The Revised

and Expanded Wellness Model. This model, which is more inclusive, includes
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dimensions of (1) self-responsibility, (2) nutritional awareness and physical fitness,

(3) meaning and purpose, (4) relationship dynamics, and (5) emotional intelligence.

Along with these dimensions are eight areas of behavioral change:

(1) psychological and spiritual, (2) physical fitness, (3) job satisfaction, (4)

relationships, (5) family life, (6) nutrition, (7) leisure time, and (8) stress

management (14 Days to High Level of Wellness, 1982).

In 2001, Ardell modified this model and developed his third and last model, in

which there are 3 domains of self-management, which are explained in the context

of the challenge of aging well. Within these three domains, there are total of 14

skill areas: (1) Physical Domain (Exercise and Fitness, Nutrition, Appearance,

Adaptations / Challenges), (2) Mental Domain (Emotional Intelligence, Effective

Decisions, Stress Management, Factual Knowledge, and Mental Health), (3)

Meaning and Purpose (Meaning and Purpose, Relationships, Humor, Play).

Hettler (1984), a public health physician and medical educator, described a

hexagon model including six dimensions of healthy functioning; (1) social, (2)

occupational, (3) spiritual, (4) physical, (5) intellectual, and (6) emotional

components. Social dimension involves the development of social intimacy with

family, friend, and coworkers. The dimension also includes the type of environment

in which the individual lives. Occupational and career dimension includes the past

and present vocational experiences and skills acquired, a level of satisfaction

attained during the period of employment, and salary level attained. Physical

dimension refers to behaviors and factors that directly and indirectly affect physical
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health such as types and levels of exercise, nutrition, alcohol, stress levels, sexual

activity, body esteem, and amount of sleep. Intellectual dimension involves formal

and informal means toward knowledge and enlightenment. Emotional dimension

includes the ability to own and express one’s emotions in a healthy manner. This

model is the basis for two assessment instruments, Testwell (National Wellness

Institute, 1988) and the Lifestyle Assessment Questionnaire (LAQ) (National

Wellness Institute, 1983).

Adams Bezner, and Steinhardt (1997) built the Perceived Wellness Model

(PWM) on the construct of wellness defined as both multidimensional and

salutogenic (health seeking) within an integrated systems framework. For the

multidimensional aspect of the PWM, Adams (1995) defined wellness as a “manner

of living that permits the experience of consistent, balanced growth in the physical,

spiritual, psychological, social, emotional, and intellectual dimensions of human

existence” (p. 15). The six dimensions in this model are consistent with a holistic

wellness perspective integrating aspects of the body, mind, and spirit. These or

similar dimensions exist in the majority of wellness models (e.g., Hettler, 1984;

Witmer & Sweeney, 1992), although the underlying theoretical framework and

emphasis on behavior change theory distinguishes the PWM from other models of

wellness.

The PWM represents various degrees of wellness and illness as a cone-

shaped object. Wellness is displayed at the widest expansion of the PWM,

whereas the tightly constricted bottom represents illness. Wellness in all

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dimensions, at the top of the model, is depicted as boundless and increasing

independence to individuals. The distal narrow part of the cone represents illness

that constricts or limits individual independence. In between are innumerable

combinations of wellness that demonstrate the various states of balance among

them (Adams, Bezner, Garner, et al., 1998). Change in any dimension affects the

other dimensions. Increasing wellness in one dimension has positive ripple effect

on the other dimensions, and similarly, disease or illness will cause a rippling

negative effect on the other dimensions.

Distinctive to the PWM is the inclusion of behavior change as one of its

underlying theories. This model makes it clear that: 1) general health perceptions

are among the best predictors of numerous health outcomes; and 2) nearly every

behavior change theory in use today employs perceived constructs, the idea being

that if you can change perceptions, you can change attitudes and ultimately

behaviors (Adams et al., 2000). The Perceived Wellness Scale is based on the

PWM.

The PWS (Adams, Bezner, & Steinhardt, 1998) was developed for use in

clinical settings as a research tool and designed using systems, wellness, and

cognitive theories as its theoretical underpinnings. Perceived wellness, according

to its authors, is defined as a multidimensional, salutogenic (i.e., health seeking)

construct, which is best understood through an integrated system view. An

assumption of the PWS is that it collects evidence supporting the belief that the

mind and the body reciprocally interact to influence overall wellness (Adams,
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Bezner, & Steinhardt, 1998; Degges-White, Myers, Adelman, & Pastoor, 2003). In

the past, research measuring the perceptions of patients had been conducted

using a single item measure of holistic wellness (Idler & Kasl, 1991; Kaplan &

Camacho, 1983; Reed, 1992). The PWS sets out to represent, integrate and

measure holistic wellness concepts through the perceptions of individuals (Adams

et al., 2000) and is a multi-faceted measure of perceived health. Population testing

with the PWS has been limited to students and employees living in the same

region. However, the brevity and simplicity of the PWS may increase its use in

clinical practice and further testing in research.

Understanding and eventually measuring individual wellness in counseling led

Sweeney and Witmer (1992) to design the Wheel of Wellness Model (WOW). This

model provided an alternative view from more common diagnostic tools used in

counseling that only identified negative and dysfunctional dimensions of a patient

(Myers et al., 2000). The WOW is a multidimensional and circular model used to

explain both the characteristics of healthy functioning and the nature of the

relationships among those characteristics. Myers et al. (1998) hypothesized the

relationships among sixteen characteristics associated with wellness. In an

extensive literature review, Myers et al. (2000) concluded that existing theoretical

and empirical literature supports each of the characteristics of wellness included in

the WOW model.

The main components of the WOW are based on Adler's theory of individual

psychology and include the major life tasks of work, friendship, and love. Spirit and
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self are also core components based on Adlerian theory (Sweeney, 2004). In fact,

spirituality is depicted in the WOW model as the central characteristic of well

persons and as essential in all other areas. Furthermore, the twelve tasks of self-

direction (sense of worth, sense of control, realistic beliefs, emotional awareness

and management, problem solving and creativity, sense of humor, nutrition,

exercise, self-care, stress management, gender identity, and cultural identity) are

conceptualized as functioning similar to “spokes in a wheel,” providing self-direction

to meet the Adlerian major life tasks of work, friendship, love, and spirituality

(Myers & Sweeney, 2004).

The WOW model incorporates a contextual framework recognizing the many

interacting dynamics in the environment and society that can affect holistic

functioning of the individual (Douthi, 2006). These forces include family,

community, government, media, business and industry, education, and religion.

Wellness is conceived of as a way of life oriented toward optimal health and well-

being in which body, mind, and spirit are integrated in a purposeful manner (Myers

et al., 2000). Differing from other models is the introduction of spirituality as the

wellness core that is central to individuals and provides the energy to drive the

patient to seek wellness. Also unique to the WOW are the multiple sub-dimensions

that interact in an individual. For each wellness dimension the model postulates a

spiritual and a personal component. These two components together provide a

rationale to explain why individuals might wish to achieve a wellness lifestyle

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(Sweeney & Witmer, 1992). Willingness to seek meaning is described as an

element of spiritual wellness (Sweeney & Witmer, 1992).

Foreign Studies

Numerous authors have defined wellness from a number of different

perspectives. Several models have been proposed. This has resulted in the

development of numerous instruments designed to assess various components of

this construct (Palombi, 1992). Therefore, studies related to wellness have been

conducted to investigate the factors that enhance wellness in several populations.

For example, in their study of investigating the effects of wellness promoting

guidance activities among elementary school children, Omizo (1992) found that the

children who participated in the guidance activities had significantly higher levels of

self-esteem and knowledge of wellness information than the children who did not

participate in the guidance activities.

Abood & Conway (1992) examined the relationship between self-esteem,

health values, specific health behaviors, and general practice of wellness behaviors

in Navy personnel and found that health values predicted health behaviors and

general practice of wellness behaviors. The results also revealed that self-esteem

predicted general practice of wellness behaviors.

Degges-White, Myers, Adelman and Pastoor (2003) investigated the

relationship between wellness and perceived stress in a clinical headache

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population and found significant negative correlations between wellness and

perceived stress.

Stanford medical students take the Learning Environment and Wellness

Survey to assess their well-being related to four areas: stress, mental health,

empathy, and the learning environment. In 2013, findings revealed that in the third

year of medical school, empathy, mental health, and learning environment quality

were slightly reduced, and student stress was slightly elevated, suggesting the

importance of wellness programming for students.

Also in 2014, Stanford medical students Megan Roosen-Runge and Jessie

Liu conducted the Barriers to Self-Care in Medical School Study, which involved a

survey and discussion groups to assess the self-care habits students tend to

sacrifice, barriers to self-care, protective factors, and desired programming to

promote self-care. Respondents indicated that the greatest barriers to their self-

care were lack of time, lack of energy, and the culture of medicine; there was

increased perception among clinical students that the culture of medicine and lack

of energy are significant barriers.

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Local Literature

Wellness is the integration of mind, body and spirit. It is a state of the best

possible well-being that allows us to achieve our goals and find meaning and

purpose in our lives. Wellness involves continually learning and making changes

to enhance your state of wellness. Wellness combines seven dimensions of well-

being into a quality way of living. When we balance the physical, intellectual,

emotional, social, occupational, spiritual, and environmental aspects of life, or quite

simply put, mind and body, we achieve true health and therefore, true wellness

(Philippine Medical Tourism, Inc.).

The National Wellness Institute has identified six dimensions through which

wellness can be measured: occupational (satisfaction and enrichment in one’s life

through work); physical (regular physical activity); intellectual (creativity and mental

stimulation); social (contributing to one’s environment and community); spiritual

(searching for meaning and purpose); emotional (awareness and acceptance of

one’s feelings). With the fast paced environment we live in, however, this idea of

balance seems impossible to achieve, and can affect how we function on a daily

basis.

The formula of a well-balanced diet, managing stress levels, getting more

than eight hours of sleep and exercising at least 30 minutes a day has long been

thought of as the key of health. It is easy to function if you are healthy. You can do
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your daily task easily if your body is in good condition. Physical wellness is

important because your life span depends on your health. Many people die easily

because they didn’t protect their body well. There are many ways you can do to

take care of yourself; Avoid stress. According to the National Institute of Diabetes

and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, stress can cause a person to feel tired and

want to do nothing.

Additionally, “wellness” has been a buzzword to encompass a more holistic

approach on healthy living, as it means being active in making choices toward a

more successful existence. In Filipino culture, there is also a principle of health as

balance (“Timbang”), while stress and illnesses are results of imbalances. A study

cited by Dr. Willie Ong reports that if you laugh more, your mood improves

dramatically, depression and anger dropped by 98%, fatigue fell by 87%, and

tension was reduced by 61%. To protect one’s emotional health, a person must

learn to accept things that may happen. There are many people who suffer from

depression, sadness, anger and hurt because they are living with the problem

instead of forgetting about it. What you feel may last, but what you decide will

dictate your whole life. Being emotional healthy is to enjoy one’s life.

The sense of order in health is linked with social relationships. Among the

Filipino health perceptions, according to Stanford University research are: rapid

shifts from hot to cold temperatures lead to illness, a “warm” environment is best

for optimal health, cold drinks or food should not be consumed in the morning,

emotional restraint restores balance. Research has pointed out some Filipino
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theories of what contributes to illness: mystical (ancestral retribution for unfinished

tasks), personality (punishment from supernatural forces), and naturalistic (natural

forces or stress) causes. The practice of meditation has long been observed, but

lately, it’s gaining more attention as individuals — even businesspeople and

celebrities — have incorporated it into their lives. Though there’s no optimal length

of time (meditation can last for a few minutes or hours), devotees can attest to the

results it can yield. On a physical level, meditation is said to lower high blood

pressure, levels of blood lactate and any tension-related pain, increases serotonin

production to improve mood and energy levels. Letting go of one’s worries and

obligations for a short period of time does wonders for the mind, stabilizing

emotions, increasing happiness, creativity and mental clarity (Asian Journal, 2015).

Spiritual wellness is a person’s ability to establish a values system and act

on the system of beliefs, as well as to establish and carry out meaningful and

constructive lifetime goals. Spiritual wellness is often based on a belief in a force

greater than the individual that helps one contribute to an improved quality of life

for all people. A person with spiritual wellness is generally characterized as fulfilled

as opposed to unfulfilled. Although religiosity is not synonymous to spiritual

wellness, for Filipinos, spiritual wellness revolves around their religion. In direct

economic conditions especially, Filipinos find meaning in their lives through

worship. Prayers provide comfort and placate worries. Moreover, worship helps

ease guilt allowing one to have a peace of mind. (Zamora & Fernandez, 2016)
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These days, trends emerge left and right to help attain society’s notion of a

‘healthy’ lifestyle — from wearable technology, fitness classes, fad diets and “super

foods,” you name it. Something is always being marketed as the ‘next big thing’ in

health and wellness.

Local Studies

The Philippines is currently facing major health issues with alarming

increases in the prevalence of hypertension, obesity, and physical inactivity

according to national data (Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of

Science and Technology [FNRIDOST], 2008). In a nationally representative sample

of 7,700 Filipinos ages 20 and older, FNRI-DOST reported that very few Filipino

adults – only 7% – had high levels of leisure-time physical activity.

Despite the many documented benefits of exercise and physical activity on

physical and psychological health, only a small percentage of Filipinos engages in

regular exercise according to national surveys. Regular participation in leisure-time

physical activities, such as exercise and sport, is positively associated with

reduced anxiety and depression, enhanced mood and improved psychological

well-being. Despite this knowledge, national data from the Philippines indicate that

only a small percentage of Filipinos engage in regular physical activity (Food and

Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology 2008).

Exercise maintains or improves health-related components of fitness,

namely, cardiovascular fitness, muscular fitness, flexibility, and body composition,

 P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

as well as balance, a skill-related component of fitness associated with improved

functioning among older adults (World Health Organization 2010). Because of

these straightforward associations with public health and fitness, the social

organization of exercise includes stakeholders like state public health agencies,

the fitness industry and the private sector. Among Filipinos, the three most popular

forms of exercise are walking, running, and weight lifting (Cagas, Torre &

Manalastas 2010).

With the growing evidence that members of the general population in Asian

societies such as the Philippines do not achieve the sufficient levels of physical

activity required to promote health, it is an important task for researchers in

exercise and sport psychology and allied fields to examine factors that drive people

to be more physically active in daily life.

A survey by US research firm Gallup ranks the Philippines the most emotional

society in the world—not at all a surprise for a country where a senator ends his

privilege speech in tears, another senator becomes a byword as much for hilarious

pick-up lines as for her heated outbursts on the senate floor, and where everyone

loves a good melodramatic teleserye. According to a report on BusinessWeek,

Gallup polled over 140 countries, asking respondents questions that reveal

emotions—for example: "Did you feel well rested yesterday?" or "Did you smile or

laugh a lot yesterday?" The poll also asked respondents if they experienced

certain emotions such as worry, sadness, stress, anger, enjoyment, or physical

 P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

pain. Based on the results, 60 percent of Filipino respondents answered the

questions in the affirmative—the highest rate among all the countries surveyed.

Mental health problems are increasing and dramatically adding to the global

burden of disease and disability worldwide. Mental disorders account for about

14% of global burden of disease: depression, alcohol/drug abuse, and psychoses

(WHO, 2007).

The public health impact of mental illness is that it can cause disability for

prolonged periods. Mental illness has been found to be the third most common

form of disability in the Philippines in 2000 after visual and hearing impairments,

with a prevalence rate of 88 cases per 100,000 population (National Statistics

Office, 2000).

`The region with the highest prevalence rate of mental illness is Southern

Tagalog at 132.9 cases per 100,000 population, followed by NCR at 130.8 per

100,000 population and Central Luzon at 88.2 per 100,000 population (DOH

National Objectives for Health, 2005-2010).

WHO (2007) reports that about half of mental disorders begin before the

age of fourteen. Around 20% of the world’s children and adolescents are estimated

to have mental disorders or problems, with similar types of disorders being

reported across cultures. In the Global School Health Survey (2007), 17% of

students 13- 15 years old with specific mental health problems described to be

“feeling lonely most of the time or always during the last 12 months”, 16.7%

“seriously considered attempting suicide during the past 12 months” and 4.5%
 P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

reported “having no close friends”. WHO reports that about 50% of mental

disorders begin before the age of fourteen.

Mental Health Concerns among Adolescents 13-15 y/o (GSHS, 2007) In a

population survey (DOH, National Objectives for Health, 2005-2010), the more

frequently reported symptoms of mental health problem were excessive sadness,

confusion and forgetfulness, no control over the use of cigarettes and alcohol, and

delusions. Excessive sadness, forgetfulness and confusion increase with age.

Cigarette and alcohol abuse affect adults and adolescents more than they do the

older persons. The prevalence of mental illness is reportedly highest among the

older age groups.

Most Commonly Reported Symptoms of Mental Illness (2000) a study in the

workplace showed that 32% of government employees in 20 agencies in Metro

Manila reported experiencing mental health problems at least once in their lifetime

(DOH-NEC, 2006).

The three most common diagnoses were specific phobias (15%), alcohol

abuse (10%) and depression (6%). In a population survey (DOH, National

Objectives for Health, 2005-2010), the more frequently reported symptoms of

mental health problem were excessive sadness, confusion and forgetfulness, no

control over the use of cigarettes and alcohol, and delusions. Excessive sadness,

forgetfulness and confusion increase with age. Cigarette and alcohol abuse affect

adults and adolescents more than they do the older persons. The prevalence of

mental illness is reportedly highest among the older age groups. Mental disorders
 P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

such as depression, alcohol, substance abuse, child/adolescent development

problems are among the risk factors for some NCDs and can also contribute to

unintentional and intentional injury. Comorbidity or the co-occurrence of physical

and mental conditions is common. A community survey showed that those who

report significant emotional distress reported high rates of high cholesterol, high

blood pressure, obesity, asthma and diabetes (NYC Department of Health and

Mental Hygiene, 2003).

Respondents also reported risk behaviours that potentially increase the

incidence of poor health, such as lack of exercise, binge drinking, smoking and

poor nutrition. Several studies provide evidence linking mental health domains to

physical conditions, particularly on the interactions between depression and related

illnesses including anxiety, and heart disease (Kuper, Marmot & Hemingway,

2002), stroke (Carson et al., 2002), diabetes (Anderson et al., 2001), asthma

(Goldney et al., 2003) and cancer (De Boer et al., 1999). Depression occurs in 16–

23% of patients with coronary artery disease and may precede myocardial

infarction in 33–50% of cases. Depression and anxiety have also been found in

patients following coronary artery bypass graft and in patients with congestive

heart failure. Local data show that almost half (47%) of those diagnosed to have

long-standing physical illness in selected tertiary hospitals in the Philippines had

anxiety and depression and other psychiatric illnesses (Perlas, et al., 1996).

Behaviours such as tobacco and alcohol use and other risk and protective

factors such as exercise and overweight may influence onset, course and
 P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

outcomes of cardiac pathology through complex causal and associative pathways.

Depression and anxiety may worsen prognosis for stroke. Depression and anxiety

can influence the course of diabetes and are associated with poor control of blood

glucose levels and a range of complications. Increased rates of depression have

also been found in people with asthma.

Synthesis and Relevance of the Related Literature and Studies

The presented review of related literature and studies made by the

researchers deals with the factors related to wellness. There are several models

and point of view presented in the study as cited from different authors. Each of

these themes is intertwined with one another. By understanding the large amount

of wellness research already been conducted, assumptions can be made to better

serve students in their journey to leading holistically well lifestyles. However,

professionals should not stop there, but should continue to conduct wellness

research in areas related to college campuses to ultimately provide the necessary

information to drive change in college campus culture.

 P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

Chapter 3

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter contains the comprehensive description of the research design,

population, sample size, and sampling technique use, research instrument,

description of respondents, procedure of gathering the data, and the statistical

treatment applied in the study.

The research design ensures that the evidence obtained enables us to

answer the initial question as unambiguously as possible. This study will attempt to

measure the six-dimensional aspects of BSOA students. Therefore, this study will

make use of quantitative research to guarantee its effectiveness.

Research Design

 Descriptive Design

Quantitative research is a type of research that uses numerical analysis. In

essence, this approach reduces the data into numbers. The researchers know in

advance what they are looking for and all aspects of the study are carefully
 P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

designed before the data is collected. The objective of quantitative research is to

develop and employ mathematical models, theories and/or hypotheses pertaining

to phenomena[ CITATION And09 \l 1033 ].

To ensure that the quantitative method is being used, a survey will be

conducted. The survey is composed of 36 questions and will be adopted from the

Perceived Wellness Survey. This survey will allow BSOA students to answer

behavioral-based questions about their wellness practices. In the survey, all six

dimensions of wellness will address.

Population, Sample Size, and Sampling Technique

The respondents of this research will be the students of Bachelor of Science

in Office Administration A.Y. 2017-2018 in Polytechnic University of the Philippines,

Sta. Mesa, Manila Branch. The population of the 3 rd year and 4th year students of

the Department of Office Administration is 381 and the researchers will use Slovin’s

formula in order to get the sample size. The researchers will use random sampling

to select the respondents from the student of second year and third year then they

will distribute the number of respondents for each year level to its corresponding

sections. Random sampling includes choosing subjects from a population through

unpredictable means [CITATION ran13 \l 1033 ]. Basically, it gives an equal

chance to be selected out of the population being researched.

Table 1
Population and sample size of the Department of Office Administration
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N
The formula of Slovin’s formula is: n ≥ 2
1+ N e

Where: n = sample size

N = total population

e = marginal error (0.05)

n= 381
1+(381)(0.05)2

n= 381
1+(381)(0.0025)

n= 381
1+0.9525
n= 381
1.9525
Student’s Year
Population Sample size
Level
n= 3rd year 223 114
4th year 158 81 195.13
Total 381 195
Description of Respondents
 P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

The respondents of this study will be the students of Bachelor of Science in

Office Administration A.Y. 2016-2017 in Polytechnic University of the Philippines,

Sta. Mesa, Manila Branch. They will randomly select from second year college up

to third year college regardless of their sections. To complete the required number

of respondents, the researchers used the Slovin’s formula, and as a result the total

was 195 respondents.

Research Instrument

The researchers will use descriptive survey that is based from the specific

problems of the study with the questions arranged in a thematic form,

corresponding to the specific questions. It consists of two parts which are the

profile of the respondents as the first part; respondents’ perception on their

wellness and the factors that affect them as the second and last part. The profile

of the students includes the name, year level, age, and gender. The second part

includes of 6 dimensions on the perception on the factors affecting their wellness

which are the psychological, emotional, social, physical, spiritual, and intellectual

dimensions. Each dimension has six items for the respondent to identify their

perception Numerical Data of wellness.

Range Verbal Interpretation
6 5.50 -
Strongly Agree
6.00
5 4.50 -
Agree
5.49
4 3.50 -
Somehow Agree
4.49
3 2.50 -
Somehow Disagree
3.49
2 1.50 -
Disagree
2.49
1 1.00 -
Strongly Disagree
1.49
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Each item indicator has 6 statements the respondents rated based on the six-level

scale below.

Data Gathering Procedure

The researchers will undergo the following procedures:

After deciding on the topic to research, the researchers will ask for an

approval from their adviser. The researchers will send a letter of request to gather

data from the respondents’ department which is the Department of Office

Administration.

The researchers will determine the statements of the problem in order to

gather data and from there, the researchers’ base the statements included in the

survey and have them validate by various professors. The researchers will

distribute the survey to 195 respondents from the Department of Office

Administration. Then, the researchers will go to a statistician to inform and inquire

regarding the statistical treatments to be use in this study.

After gathering all the data needed, the researchers then treat the data with

the aid of several tools. The data will compile, analyze, and interpret.

Statistical Treatment
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The results of the organized tabulated, data will treat statistically. These are

the following statistical treatments that will be use to interpret the data gathered.

1. Percentage - This will use to compute the frequency and percent

distribution of the respondents.

F
The formula is: % =
N
x 100 %

Where: % - Percentage

F – Frequency

N – No. of respondents

3. Weighted mean- This will use to get the average of the responses.

TW
The formula is: Wx=
TR

Where:

Wx - Weighted mean

TW - Total weight

TR - Total respondents
 P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

4. Independent samples t-test- This is used to compare means for two groups of

cases.

x 1−x 2

√
2
The formula is: T= S 12 S 2❑
+
n1 n2
Where:

X1- mean of sample 1

X2- mean of sample 2

N1- number of subjects in sample 1

N2- number of subjects in sample 2

S12- variance of sample 1

S22- variance of sample 2

6. One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) -This is used to see if there is any

difference between groups on some variables.

The formula is:

ANOVA Formula
ANOVA table for fixed model, single factor, fully randomized experiment
Source
Sums of Degrees of Mean
of Sums of squares F
squares Freedom square
variation
 P O LY T E C H N I C U N I V E R S I T Y O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

Explanatory
Computational SS DF MS
SS

Treatme
nts

Error

Total

is the estimate of variance corresponding to of the model.