Pelatihan Relaksasi Otot Progresif untuk Menurunkan Stres Akademik pada Mahasiswa Program Studi Bimbingan Konseling Islam UIN Mataram

Abstract

Academic stress is a common psychological challenge faced by university students, particularly in study programs with integrative religious and humanities burdens, such as Islamic Guidance and Counseling (BKI) at UIN Mataram. Dense curriculum demands, field practices, and final thesis preparation often trigger psychological anxiety that manifests as physical tension. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) training in reducing academic stress levels among BKI UIN Mataram students. The research method used was quantitative with a quasi-experimental design in the form of a Non-equivalent Control Group Design. The research sample consisted of 30 students selected through purposive sampling technique, then divided equally into an experimental group (n=15) and a control group (n=15). Data were collected using the Academic Stress Scale adapted from the Educational Stress Scale for Adolescents (ESSA) and analyzed using t-tests (Paired and Independent Sample T-Test) via SPSS. Descriptive analysis results showed a sharp decrease in the mean score of academic stress in the experimental group by 11.80 points (from 45.73 to 33.93), while the control group remained relatively stable with a minor decrease of only 0.94 points. The Independent Sample T-Test on the post-test scores yielded a t-value of -5.036 with a significance level of p = 0.000 (p < 0.05). This empirically proves that Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) training is significantly effective in reducing academic stress among BKI UIN Mataram students. This intervention is not only beneficial as an independent self-healing tool but also serves as a strategic clinical skill investment for future professional Islamic counselors.