Feasibility and efficacy of a 2-week Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) intervention for procrastination among university students : a pilot study

Abstract

This feasibility study examined the effectiveness of a two-week Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) program for university students struggling with procrastination. Participants (n=18) completed four self-assessment scales, including the Procrastination AssessmentScale-Students (PASS), and provided feedback on their experiences with the intervention. This study used a mixed method, one-group pre-test-post-test, and follow-up design using quantitative and qualitative analysis. The program consisted of a CBT lecture and workbookexercises aimed at helping participants identify and address unhelpful thoughts and behaviors related to procrastination. Results showed significantly decreased procrastination levels, with participants responding positively to the program. This aligns with prior studies that have concluded their procrastination treatment had a positive lasting effect on reducing procrastination behavior after the treatment ends (Rozental et al., 2018; Toker & Avcı, 2015; Ugwuanyi et al., 2020). The study recommends further research with a control group and a larger sample size to increase generalizability and investigate procrastination-related mental health issues. Overall, this feasibility study highlights the potential benefits of a shorter CBT intervention program for university students struggling with procrastination.Keywords: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), procrastination, intervention program, university students.