Fear of uncertainty, academic self-efficacy, and perceived social support as predictors of life satisfaction among Malaysian undergraduate students

Gan, Kah Hee and Kor, Fong Ming and Tai, Yi Ying (2025) Fear of uncertainty, academic self-efficacy, and perceived social support as predictors of life satisfaction among Malaysian undergraduate students. Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

University life entails multiple challenges including academic and social adjustments, and future-related uncertainties, that heighten undergraduate students’ vulnerability to mental health issues and ultimately affect their life satisfaction. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the predictive effects of fear of uncertainty, academic self-efficacy, and perceived social support on life satisfaction among Malaysian undergraduate students. A cross-sectional study was conducted using purposive sampling method. A total of 397 Malaysian undergraduate students between the age range of 18 to 24 were recruited via online platforms. The instruments used in the present study were Dark Future Scale, Academic Self-Efficacy Scale, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and Satisfaction with Life Scale. A linear regression model showed that academic self-efficacy and perceived social support positively predicted life satisfaction. Meanwhile, fear of uncertainty was not indicated as a significant predictor of life satisfaction. Self-Determination Theory was used as the theoretical framework in this study. The current study supports Self-Determination Theory by showing that academic self-efficacy (competence) and perceived social support (relatedness) significantly contribute to life satisfaction among Malaysian undergraduates, whereas future-oriented fear (future autonomy) does not influence life satisfaction. It extends the theory by situating these needs in an academic context, suggesting the potential role of meaningfulness, and the timing of needs fulfilment. This study contributes to the current literature by identifying potential predictors of life satisfaction in the context of Malaysian undergraduate students. Interventions aimed at improving life satisfaction among Malaysian undergraduate students should be implemented through fostering their academic self-efficacy and promoting their perceived social support.

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