Stress and Distress in Healthcare Students
Author Information
Author(s): Pänkäläinen Katariina, Hintsa Taina, Elovainio Marko, Pyörälä Eeva, Paunio Tiina
Primary Institution: University of Helsinki
Hypothesis
The study explores the association between perceived stress and psychological distress, and the stress-buffering effects of social support, sense of community belonging, and meaningfulness of studying.
Conclusion
Support from parents, romantic partners, peers, sense of community belonging, and meaningfulness of studying may buffer the negative psychological outcomes of perceived stress.
Supporting Evidence
- Higher perceived stress was associated with increased depressive symptoms and anxiety.
- Social support from parents and partners moderated the effects of perceived stress on psychological distress.
- Sense of community belonging and meaningfulness of studying also buffered the effects of perceived stress.
Takeaway
Healthcare students feel stressed, but having support from family and friends can help them feel better. It's also important for them to find meaning in their studies.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study using an online survey with logistic regression analyses.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may introduce social desirability bias.
Limitations
The study's results may not be generalizable due to the convenience sample from one university, potential selection bias, and the cross-sectional design.
Participant Demographics
Participants were healthcare students aged 18 to 40, with a mean age of 25; 73% were female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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