000			02636nab a22002417a 4500
999			_c95389 _d95389
003			CITU
005			20260729111308.0
008			260422c2026 |||p| |||| 00| 0 eng d
100	1		_aGuingguing, Yugyn Mari A. _eauthor.
245	0	4	_aThe impact of price increase and spending power to financial stress and spending behavior among university students.
264		4	_c2026
520			_aRising prices and reduced spending power have become major challenges for university students, affecting their financial behavior and emotional well-being. This study examines how inflation-driven economic pressures influence students’ financial stress and purchasing decisions. A descriptive-correlational design was used, involving 388 college students from a university in Cebu City, Philippines. Data were collected through a structured online survey using a 5-point Likert scale to measure perceptions of price increases, spending power, financial stress, and purchasing behavior. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis were applied. Findings show strong agreement that prices of basic goods and services have increased (mean = 4.408) and that students’ spending power is insufficient (mean = 3.803). Students reported adopting cost-saving strategies such as prioritizing necessities, delaying non-essential purchases, and choosing cheaper alternatives (mean = 4.289). Financial stress was also high (mean = 3.899), with anxiety and frustration common among respondents. Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive relationship between price increases and purchasing behavior (r = .664, p < .001) and moderate correlations between spending power and financial stress (r = .522, p < .001). Inflation significantly impacts students’ financial decisions and mental well-being. Institutions should consider flexible payment schemes, financial aid, and programs that promote financial literacy and stress management. Future research may explore long-term effects on academic performance, mental health, and the role of digital financial tools in improving resilience.
650		0	_aCollege students _zPhilippines _zCebu City _xFinance, personal.
650		0	_aFinance, personal _xPsychological aspects.
650		0	_aCost and standard of living _zPhilippines _zCebu City.
700	1		_aSato, Mitzi Faye A. _eauthor.
700	1		_aLico, Trixie Sandra J. _eauthor.
700	1		_aAbella, Ayumi Jane L. _eauthor.
700	1		_aOrtiz, Erica Shaina L. _eauthor.
700	1		_aFlores, Nesta Rudy Marcus P. _eauthor.
773			_gVolume 1, Issue 1 (February 2026), pages 39-51. _tSemestral Research Compendium
942			_2ddc _cART