Stress and Coping Strategies in Undergraduate Medical Students

Saba Yasien, Tabassum Alvi

Abstract


The study aimed to assess level of stress and the association of coping strategies with perceived stress. The sample of 200 medical students participated in this cross-sectional study. The age of the participants ranged from 18 to 26 years old. Demographic questionnaire, perceived stress scale and brief cope scale were administered. Descriptive statistics, t-tests and multiple hierarchal regression was employed for statistical analysis. Findings indicated that 29% of the medical students were found to be less stressed, 26% were moderately stressed and 20% were highly stressed. There was no gender difference in the level of stress. Coping strategies of self-blame and denial emerged as significant positive predictors of stress. Beside healthy coping strategies, they are using maladaptive coping strategies. Findings highlighted the need to conduct stress management programs which help to strengthen the coping skills of student.


Keywords


undergraduate medical students, perceived stress, coping strategies

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References


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