Evaluation of Emotional intelligence and Perceived Stress in Dental Undergraduates- a Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Emotional intelligence (EI) is a tool with those working in stressful environment and managing high work pressure in different settings. Dentistry is considered as a highly demanding and stress oriented profession. Elevated stress levels due to prolonged workload may precipitate fatigue declining student performance. The aim of the present study was to assess the Perceived sources of stress among first year dental undergraduate students at a private institution in India and if there was any significant relation between EI and Perceived stress

Materials and methods: It was a Descriptive, Epidemiological, Institution based Cross-sectional study. The Schutte Emotional Intelligence Scale and modified dental environment stress (DES) questionnaire were administered to 84 First year dental students to assess the levels of Emotional Intelligence and stress.

Results: The major stressor for all students was lack of time for relaxation followed by examination and grades. Students belonging to nuclear family were found to perceive significantly greater stress and have lesser Emotional Intelligence than those of Joint family. (p=0.001). By Pearson’s correlation, there was a strong negative correlation between Perceived Stress and EI, which means that high Perceived stress variable scores go with low Emotional Intelligence variable scores.( P <0.00001)

Conclusion: The primary sources of stress were increased workload and Performance pressure. This study examined the link between perceived stress and emotional intelligence in First year undergraduate dental students. This study would contribute to enhance students’ stress-bearing skills and help in deciding future course of action through counselling and psychiatric support systems.