A Study of the Psychological Factors Resulting in High and Low Academic Performance of Public Sector University Students

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the causes of psychological factors of high and low academic performance of public sector university students of District Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. Previous literature was reviewed to examine the issue and design the research tools. To explore the causes, major efforts in this research were made to determine the factors of students’ low academic performance. Using Convenience sampling technique, a sample of 556 university students studying at the bachelor's level (4 Years Degree Program) were selected from the public sector universities of District Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan for this study. Questionnaires were developed in light of the objectives of the study and responses were collected from the selected sample accordingly. The study’s findings showed that high achievers are less likely to attend tuitions and have a clearer vision for their futures than low achievers. The t-test results showed that high achievers have a higher internal academic locus of control, higher levels of self-esteem, lower levels of examination anxiety, and a more positive outlook on learning than low achievers. The analysis revealed a statistically significant beneficial relationship between academic success, study habits, motivation, and self-esteem.