PSYCHOLOGICAL DIFFERENCES IN STUDENTS DURING THE STAGES OF ADAPTATION TO HIGHER EDUCATION

This article examines psychological differences in students during the stages of adaptation to higher education. The study is based on theoretical analysis within the fields of Pedagogy and Psychology, focusing on key concepts such as Adaptation, Stress, and Motivation. The research identifies the main stages of adaptation and analyzes the psychological characteristics observed at each stage. It highlights that students experience different emotional states, including anxiety, uncertainty, and increasing psychological stability over time. The study also emphasizes the role of individual psychological traits, social support, and educational environment in shaping the adaptation process. Furthermore, the article discusses major stress factors affecting students and examines how motivation changes throughout the adaptation period. Based on the analysis, practical recommendations are proposed to improve students’ adaptation, including strengthening psychological support, enhancing motivation, and creating a supportive learning environment. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of student adaptation in higher education and provide useful insights for improving educational effectiveness and student well-being.