Published 05-12-2025
Keywords
- Existential crisis,
- university students,
- perception,
- qualitative study
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Abstract
An existential crisis is a growing concern among young adults, particularly university students, yet the concept remains vague and underexplored in specific cultural contexts. This study aims to investigate how undergraduate students at a public university in Malaysia understand and interpret existential crises. Using a qualitative research design based on objectivist grounded theory, the study conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews with 15 purposively selected students from various academic backgrounds. Thematic analysis revealed three core themes: loneliness, hopelessness, and unfulfillment. These themes highlight multidimensional struggles, including emotional isolation, persistent suffering, and a lack of life purpose or direction. The findings provide valuable insights into the internal experiences of students grappling with existential dilemmas, underscoring the urgent need for culturally relevant mental health interventions that address the emotional, cognitive, and social aspects of meaninglessness in higher education