Background: Burnout is a significant concern among medical students worldwide, impacting individual well-being and educational outcomes. This study aims to assess the prevalence and associated factors of burnout among medical undergraduate students.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed, utilizing online surveys primarily the Maslach Burnout Inventory. The study included 331 medical students. Data included demographic characteristics and university year, as well as burnout parameters [emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization, and personal achievement (PA)].
Results: The study revealed diverse demographic characteristics, with a majority of participants showing a 20-22 age range (47.7%) and a predominantly female gender representation (65.9%). Significant correlations were found between age and EE (r = 0.120, p = 0.029) and PA (r = 0.147, p = 0.007), suggesting an increase in EE with age but a positive impact on PA. Gender disparities were observed in EE, with females exhibiting a higher prevalence of moderate EE (42.7%) compared to males (39.8%, p = 0.045). University year correlated significantly with EE (r = 0.131, p = 0.017) and PA (r = 0.161, p = 0.003), indicating higher burnout levels and PA as students progressed through their academic journey.
Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence and correlates of burnout among medical students at Taif University. The identified associations with age, gender, and university year contribute to the understanding of burnout dynamics in this specific context. Tailored interventions, especially for first-year students and addressing gender disparities, are crucial for mitigating burnout and promoting the well-being of medical students in Saudi Arabia.
Key words: Depression, medical students, burnout, Taif University, Saudi Arabia.
|
