Perceived Stressors as Determinants of Quality of Life among the Undergraduates in Medical Education

Abstract

Medical education involves multiple challenges which can take a toll on the quality of life and elevates the stress levels. This can have detrimental effects on mental health, relationships, productivity and accomplishments. This study aims to determine the effect of perceived stressors on Quality of Life among the undergraduate students in medical education. The study sample was 517 students of medical and dental courses selected from a Medical College in central Kerala. The tools used are Source and Severity of Stress Scale and WHOQOL-BREF. Overall stress score was found to have a significant association with the quality of life domains. Further, Health & Value conflict domain of stressors was seen to have a significant association with physical and social components of quality of life. Other stressor domains namely ‘Academics’, ‘Self-expectations’, ‘Relationships’ & ‘Living Conditions’ are found to cause a progressive decline on all the 4 components of quality of life.