THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ADJUSTMENT AND NEGATIVE EMOTIONAL STATES AMONG FIRST YEAR MEDICAL STUDENTS

Abstract

Adjustment problems and negative emotional states such as depression, anxiety and stress are prevalent among university students. Previous studies have not identified the relationship between academic, social, personal emotional and attachment to university adjustment problems with depression, anxiety and stress among first year medical students. This study explored gender differences and relationships between adjustment problems and negative emotional states. In this study, 42 male and 57 female medical students completed the Student Adaptation to College Questionnaire and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale. Results indicated a moderate adjustment level and no significant gender differences among medical students. Significant gender differences were found in stress and anxiety but not in depression. There were significant negative correlations between various adjustment and depression, anxiety, and stress. Overall, in this study female students were more stressed and anxious compared to male students. Therefore, the university should carry out prevention programs to address these issues.