Classification of University Freshmen's Adaptation and Exploration of Influencing Factors through Latent Profile Analysis: Focusing on the Case of K University

This study identifies latent profile types of university freshmen's adaptation and examines differences in adaptation levels and influencing factors. A total of 3,601 freshmen from K University were assessed for self-control, goal orientation, self-esteem, academic stress, close interpersonal relationships, and family support. Latent profile analysis, ANOVA, and regression analysis revealed three adaptation types: low-capacity, mid-capacity, and high-capacity groups. The low-capacity group showed significantly lower adaptation levels, while no differences were found between mid- and high-capacity groups. Academic stress was the strongest predictor of adaptation across profiles, with self-esteem playing a more critical role in the low-capacity group. These results provide insights for effective, tailored adaptation support strategies.