Factors causing stress in postgraduate dental students during COVID‑19 pandemic: A cross‑sectional survey

Abstract

Background: COVID‑19 pandemic has impacted the academic and clinical training of postgraduate
dental students. This study aimed to assess various factors causing psychological stress in them,
and the extent of stress perception during pandemic.
Materials and Methods: In this cross‑sectional study, 250 postgraduate students from nine dental
colleges of Haryana and National Capital Region, India, responded to an online questionnaire sent
electronically to them in September 2020, which included modified dental environment stress (DES)
score, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and questions regarding COVID‑associated stress (CAS). Students
already diagnosed with any psychiatric disorder or having a history of any major adverse event
during the last 6 months likely to affect their psychological health were excluded from this study.
The data obtained were analyzed using Chi‑square test, Independent t‑test, univariate ANOVA with
post hoc tests, Pearson moment correlation, and multiple hierarchical regression tests. P < 0.05 was
considered statistically significant.
Results: DES score was moderate for 48.8% and high for 34.4% of the participants. PSS was
moderate for 69.2% and high for 18.8% of the participants. The most stressful factor in dental
environment was the pattern of university examination, while the most stressful factor specific to
COVID‑19 was the fear of family members contracting the infection. PSS score was significantly
higher in female participants. DES and CAS scores were significantly higher in students staying in
hostels. Multiple hierarchical regression model depicted gender, mean health, and DES score as
significant predictors of PSS.
Conclusion: Postgraduate dental students reported the adverse impact of COVID‑19 pandemic
upon their training and prospects as a reason for the increase in stress.
Key Words: COVID‑19 pandemic, cross‑sectional study, dental students, psychological stress