International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Rajni Rana and Poonam Malik

abstract
Adolescence is a critical stage in human development, marked by physical, emotional and cognitive changes. One of the challenges faced by many adolescents today is academic stress. The pressure to succeed academically has intensified due to several factors, including increased competition, high academic expectations and societal values placed on educational achievements. Stress, in this context, refers to the psychological and physiological responses triggered by academic demands, which can overwhelm adolescents, affecting their overall well-being. The present study was conducted with the aim to find the level of academic stress across area of residence and gender. The study was conducted in Gurugram and Hisar districts of Haryana state. The study was conducted on adolescents of 11^th and 12^th grade across three academic streams. The total sample comprised of 360 adolescents (180 from Gurugram and 180 from Hisar). Academic stress was measured using the Academic Stress Scale developed by Rao (2012). Self-developed questioner was used to collect information on personal and socioeconomic variables. Results of the study elucidated that moderate level of academic stress was present in adolescents. Gurugram adolescents had higher level of academic stress as compared to Hisar adolescents. Female adolescents had higher level of academic stress as compared to male counterpart.