IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MEDICAL EVALUATION AND PHYSICAL REPORT (IJMEPR )

E-ISSN 2579-0498
P-ISSN 2695-2181
VOL. 9 NO. 4 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijmepr.v9.no4.2025.pg35.41

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Psychological Challenges Faced by Medical Students with Extended Study Duration: A Cross-Sectional Study

Stanley Ukadike Okugbo and Osarhieme Tinuade Okugbo

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Abstract

An extended duration of study in medical school, often resulting from systemic disruptions such as strikes, can exacerbate psychological distress among students. This cross-sectional study surveyed 45 final-year medical students at the University of Benin, Nigeria, to explore the psychological impacts of prolonged study periods primarily caused by Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) strikes. Descriptive statistics revealed high stress levels (mean = 4.04, SD = 0.99), with 75.6% reporting increased anxiety and 71.1% feeling disconnected from their graduated peers. Financial stress was prevalent (mean = 4.11, SD = 1.10), and 46.7% reported poor or very poor mental health. Odds ratio analyses demonstrated that high financial stress significantly increased the odds of poor mental health (OR = 7.09, 95% CI [1.70, 29.54], p = 0.005) and high stress (OR = 13.62, 95% CI [2.95, 62.87], p = 0.0003). Social disconnection from graduated peers was also associated with poor mental health (OR = 4.29, 95% CI [0.99, 18.62], p = 0.04). Qualitative responses highlighted burnout, self- doubt, and financial strain, with students suggesting more autonomous medical school calendars and enhanced mental health support. These findings underscore the need for institutional reforms to mitigate the psychological toll of extended medical training.

keywords:

ASUU strike; Extended Study duration; Medical education; Nigeria;

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