Factors affecting adjustment of first-year nursing students to college life: A descriptive correlational study

Abstract

BackgroundAccording to recent statistics from the Korean Ministry of Education, the number of students who have dropped out of college has increased. ObjectivesTo assess the relationship between creativity, social support, voice behaviour, and college life adjustment among first-year nursing students and to identify the factors influencing college life adjustment. DesignThis study used a cross-sectional correlational design. SampleNon-random convenience sampling. ParticipantsParticipants were first-year Korean nursing students (n = 153). MethodData were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using a multiple regression analysis. ResultsAdjustment to college life was significantly correlated with creativity (r = 0.26, p < .001), social support (r = 0.37, p < .001), and voice behaviour (r = 0.40, p < .001). A stepwise regression model showed subjective interpersonal degree (β = 0.32, p < .001), satisfaction with major (β = 0.31, p < .001), voice behaviour (β = 0.25, p < .001), and academic confidence (β = 0.15, p = .015) were significant predictors of college life adjustment (R2 = 0.56, p < .001). ConclusionTo improve the college life adjustment of new students in nursing schools, nursing education programmes should include strategies to enhance interpersonal-relationship levels, satisfaction with nursing major, voice behaviour, and academic confidence.