Predictive Role of Mindfulness and Emotion Regulation for Psychological Distress in Pakistani Medical Students

Abstract

This research was intended to investigate the relationship between mindfulness, emotion regulation, and psychological distress in Pakistani medical students. It was also aimed to assess the predictive role of mindfulness and emotion regulation for psychological distress (depression, anxiety, stress). Correlational research design and purposive sampling techniques were used. The data was collected from both public and private medical colleges. The total sample comprised 216 participants (men; n=96; women; n= 120). Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) along with a demographic information sheet were used to assess the study variables. Results were analyzed through SPSS 21. Findings revealed a significant negative relationship of mindfulness and emotion regulation with psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress) in medical students. Furthermore, mindfulness and emotion regulation significantly predicted psychological distress (anxiety). The results of the present study will help clinical psychologists to devise improved training programs and therapeutic interventions for medical students for minimizing their distress so that medical students become able to perform better in their academic activities.