Job demand control support model (JDCS) in university setting

Based on the well-established JDCS model [24] and the corresponding Job-Content questionnaire [25], Schmidt et al. (2019) developed a questionnaire (in German: StrukStud) that measures study conditions [35]. The questionnaire had been validated in four study samples and showed good psychometric properties [35]. It includes four scales formed by a total of 25 items and was answered by participants on a 4-point Likert scale from 1 (not applicable) to 4 (applicable). Demands were measured by seven items and had acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha 0.71). Decision latitude entailed five items for skill discretion and three items for decision authority and had sufficient internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha 0.71). Social support was measured with one scale for support from lecturers/professors (five items, Cronbach’s alpha 0.77) and one scale for support from fellow students (five items, Cronbach’s alpha 0.77). Both scales had acceptable internal consistency. Average scores were calculated. Higher scores indicate higher demands, a high decision latitude and more social support from fellow students or lecturers/professors. An item example for demands is “In my studies I have to work fast” [35]. One example for a decision authority item is “My studies include the opportunity to have a say” and an example item for a social support item is “My fellow students help me in my studies” [35]. The translated version of all items is given in the additional material (Additional file 1) [35].