International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development

Stress is a common experience in many professions requiring extended working hours and high performance demands. Among seafarers, prolonged time at sea, multicultural environments, and demanding workloads contribute to acculturative stress. This study investigated the existence, causes, and mental health effects of acculturative stress among seafarers, as well as coping strategies adopted onboard. A total of 200 questionnaires were distributed to multinational crews across different ship types and companies, with 97 completed responses returned. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires assessing stress levels, mental health impact, and coping mechanisms. Results showed that 69.1% of respondents had sailed more than twice, indicating an experienced sample. Additionally, 69.1% reported waking up feeling unwilling to work due to stress. Statistical analysis using a chi-square test revealed a significant association between stress and mental health (Pearson χ² = 5.445, p = 0.020; Likelihood ratio χ² = 5.622, p = 0.018), demonstrating that stress significantly affects seafarers’ mental health at the 0.05 level of significance. Furthermore, 81.4% reported adopting coping strategies, including communication with family and colleagues, entertainment, exercise, religious activities, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep. The findings confirm that acculturative stress exists among seafarers and significantly impacts their mental well-being.

Emediong C. Umana, Andrew C. Etim,"Statistical Analysis of Acculturative Stress on Sea-farers, Causes, Effects on Mental Health and Remedies" International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development, V9(1): Page(2128-2133) Jan-Feb 2026. ISSN: 2581-7175. www.ijsred.com. Published by Scientific and Academic Research Publishing.