Psychological security and its relationship to academic ambition among students at prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University

Abstract

University students' academic performance is significantly influenced by psychological factors, yet the relationship between psychological security and academic ambition remains understudied in Saudi higher education. This study investigated this relationship among 350 students at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University in Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia. The main objective of this research is to analyze the correlation between psychological security and academic ambition and to identify how demographic factors influence this relationship among university students. Using validated scales and statistical analyses, we measured psychological security and academic ambition levels, examining their correlation and potential demographic influences. Results revealed high psychological security but unexpectedly low academic ambition among students. A strong positive correlation emerged between these variables, with psychological security accounting for 51.1% of the variance in academic ambition. This paradoxical finding suggests a complex interplay between feeling secure and setting high academic goals in the context of Saudi Arabia's evolving societal and economic landscape. The study concludes that while psychological security is crucial for fostering academic ambition, other factors may be dampening students' academic aspirations. These findings underscore the need for a holistic approach to student development, integrating psychological support with academic guidance, and aligning educational practices with changing societal needs to enhance overall student success in higher education.