EFFECTS OF MINDFULNESS INTERVENTIONS ON STRESS REDUCTION IN DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY STUDENTS
Abstract
Elevated stress levels pose significant challenges for healthcare students, particularly those pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. This study addresses the pressing issue of heightened stress among first-year DPT students, considering the potential impact on their physical and mental well-being, as well as academic performance. Existing research underscores the vulnerability of DPT students to stress, highlighting the need for effective stress management strategies. This study focuses on trait mindfulness as a potential protective factor, exploring its association with perceived psychological stress. Utilizing a quantitative approach and a correlational research design, the investigation examines the relationship between five facets of trait mindfulness and the stress levels experienced by first-year DPT students. Data were collected through validated self-report survey instruments—the Five Factor Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). The results, analyzed through multiple linear regression, reveal that the Nonjudging of Inner Experience facet of trait mindfulness emerges as the most influential predictor of perceived psychological stress among DPT students (p=.003). The findings emphasize the importance of integrating tailored mindfulness interventions into DPT programs to enhance students' coping strategies and better equip them for the demands of their future roles as healthcare professionals.
Keywords:
Mindfulness Interventions, Doctor of Physical Therapy Programs, Perceived Psychological Stress, Stress Reduction, Coping Strategies.Downloads
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https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10143540Issue
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