Investigation and analysis of stress reaction in shipboard naval personnel during their stay in the sanatorium

Abstract

Objective To investigate the status of stress reaction among shipboard naval personnel during their stay in the sanatorium, and also to analyze the relationship between stress reaction and general demographic factors, so as to provide evidence for intervention in the stress reaction among shipboard naval personnel. Methods By using stratified random sampling method, 492 shipboard naval personnel admitted into the sanatorium received a survey in the form of Stress Reaction Questionnaire (SRQ). Of the 492 people surveyed, 165 were surface ship personnel, 173 were submariners and another 105 were divers. Scores of physiological stress reaction, behavioral stress reaction, psychological stress reaction and comprehensive stress reaction were measured and statistical analyses were made accordingly. Results The scores of physiological stress reaction were(1.06±0.67), the scores of behavioral stress reaction were(0.89±0.67), the scores of psychological stress reaction were (1.00±0.84)and the scores of comprehensive stress reaction were(0.98±0.73), which were all within relatively good levels.Twenty-nine people had serious comprehensive stress reaction, accounting for 5.89%. The most common causes of stress reaction were: heavy smoking [(1.79±1.20)scores], fatigue [(1.67±0.97)scores], decreased memeory [(1.19±1.08)scores], poor sleep [(1.17±1.02)scores] and poor concentration(1.13±1.02)scores]. No significant differences in the scores of stress reaction(F=0.040, P=0.961), the scores of physiological stress reaction (F=0.606, P=0.546), the scores of behavioral stress reaction(F=0.086, P=0.917)and the scores of psychological stress reaction(F=0.382, P=0.683)could be noted, when comparisons were made between the surface ship personnel, submariners and divers(P>0.05). Stress reaction decreased with the increase of age, however, no statistical significance could be found between different age groups(F=0.747, P=0.561). Stress reaction for those with high school and secondary specialized education was usually more serious than that for those with regular university education or with a master degree, and statistical significance could be noted, when comparisons were made between them(F=4.469, P=0.002). Conclusions Research results indicated a certain proportion of shipboard personnel had high stress reaction. More and better psychological support for those shipboard personnel with younger age and low educational background were necessary and it was essential to conduct training on stress cognition and protection. Key words: Shipboard naval personnel; Stress reaction; Stress reaction check list; Physiological stress reaction; Psychological stress reaction; Behavioral stress reaction