A cross sectional study of perceived stress among female undergraduate students of an educational institute in South India

Siva Ilango T; Arumuganathan S; Sanjana Bhagavathy  V M; Usaid S; Sumithra Devi S; Sethumadhavan V

Volume : X, Issue : II, February - 2020

A cross sectional study of perceived stress among female undergraduate students of an educational institute in South India

Siva Ilango T, Arumuganathan S, Sanjana Bhagavathy V M, Usaid S, Sumithra Devi S, Sethumadhavan V

Abstract :

Background: Students pursuing professional courses experience stress more than their counterparts. Increase in levels of stress has significant impact on academic performance which further increase the stress levels thus becoming a vicious cycle and has serious impact on one’s physical and mental health. This study aims to assess the levels of perceived stress among female undergraduate students pursuing health professional courses. Methodology: Study participants were recruited among the students attending Women’s day programme conducted at Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Medical Sciences. Semi structured proforma and perceived stress scale were given to measure the levels of stress. Eighty four students consented and completed the questionnaire Results: Mean age of the study participants is 20.08 years. Mean score of perceived stress in Medical, Dental and Nursing is 18.96, 22.96, 19.63 respectively. Difference in stress level was significant in Dental College Undergraduates when compared with Medical Undergraduates (p value– 0.016) and Nursing Undergraduates (p value–0.042). In Nursing undergraduates significant difference observed between 2nd and 3rd year (p value=0.003) and between 1st and 3rd year (p value=0.002). Conclusion: Majority of the students perceived moderate amount of stress during their undergraduate education. The stress level was found to be higher among Dental Undergraduates when compared to Medical and Nursing Undergraduates. In Nursing undergraduates, differences in stress levels were significantly observed between 2nd year and 3rd year and between 1st year and 3rd year.