Asociación entre la motivación académica y el estrés percibido en estudiantes universitarios con la condición de foráneos en la ciudad de Loja, Ecuador, durante el año 2026

Abstract

Abstract: The general objective of this research was to determine the association between academic motivation and perceived stress among out-of-town university students in the city of Loja, Ecuador, in 2026. A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional approach with a descriptive and correlational scope was adopted. The sample consisted of 100 out-of-town students in Loja who completed an *ad hoc* sociodemographic questionnaire, the Academic Motivation Scale (AMS), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Key results indicate that the majority of the sample reported moderate stress; meanwhile, high levels predominated in the intrinsic dimensions specifically intrinsic motivation toward knowledge and toward accomplishment whereas amotivation levels were low. Finally, a significant inverse relationship was found between intrinsic dimensions and stress, whereas the three dimensions of extrinsic regulation showed only a weak significant relationship with stress. This finding differs considerably from the reviewed literature; nevertheless, establishing a purpose enhances academic motivation.