Mapping the Levels of Risk Factors, Protective Factors and Quality of Life Among Young Adults

This study explored how risk factors (academic stress, poor sleep, excessive social media use, and perfectionism) and protective factors (resilience, coping strategies, social support, and self-esteem) influence the quality of life among young adults. To access the levels of risk factors, protective factors and quality of life among young adults. Total 900 young adults were selected with age 18-25, Using a cross-sectional design and validated scales, data was analyzed through cluster analysis in SPSS-24. Three distinct clusters were identified (high, moderate, low) based on risk/protective factor levels. Cluster 1 (High risk): High academic stress, excessive social media use, low sleep quality, low resilience, low social support, and moderate quality of life, Cluster 2 (Moderate risk/protection): Mixed levels of factors, with lowest quality of life scores and Cluster 3 (Low risk/high protection): Low stress, better sleep, strong coping, high resilience and support, and highest quality of life. Findings highlight that level of risk and protective factors significantly affect quality of life among young adults, with stronger protective factors linked to better outcomes.