Cope Research Articles

Psychosocial, physical problems and coping strategies of patients having long term / permanent tracheostomy

BackgroundTracheostomy is a common surgical procedure in which a stoma is created in trachea by direct incision over the anterior aspect of the neck, which can cause disfigurement of the anterior neck and many other associated physical and psychosocial issues. Patients with long-term/permanent tracheostomy have to live with tracheostomy even after getting discharged from the hospital, which can further complicate the condition of the patients as they are unable to cope up with the problems associated with long-term tracheostomy. There is dearth of literature related to intensity of problems among patients having long term/ permanent tracheostomy in India. Therefore, the aim of the study is to assess psychosocial, physical problems and coping mechanism in patients with long-term/permanent tracheostomy.MethodsA cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at ENT outpatient department and ENT Minor operation theatre, tertiary care hospital India. Total of 100 patients having long term/permanent tracheostomy were enrolled by convenient sampling. Data regarding demographics and clinical characteristics, Physical and Psychosocial problems, and Coping strategies were collected by structured questionnaires.ResultThe majority of individuals who had long-term or permanent tracheostomies had only minor health issues. Patients experienced more psychosocial issues than people in the general healthy population. The majority of patients employed active coping, acceptance, and religion as coping mechanisms, whereas the coping mechanisms which were minimally used includes: humor and substance abuse. Patients' coping strategies vary significantly according on their age, employment status, marital status, and the duration of their tracheostomy.ConclusionLong-term/Permanent tracheostomy can cause multiple physical and psychosocial issues in patients, but eventually, patients get adapted to it. Support from family members and significant others plays a vital role in better coping with tracheostomy in situ, also it is critical for health care providers to be aware of their problems and coping mechanisms so that they can provide required care and assistance.

Community engagement in rural and urban marginalized communities in Jamaica: Building community resilience in crisis

ABSTRACT In the Caribbean, Jamaica mobilized strategies to ensure that the most vulnerable were protected against the threats and fears of COVID-19 and other crises over time. One strategy involved wide-scale collaboration with public and private sectors, non-governmental and community-based organizations, and volunteers. This study describes the approach taken by stakeholders in response to the needs of vulnerable residents in marginalized communities, and to highlight the experiences building community resilience during COVID-19. Three questions guided the research: 1) What major issues that affected the community during the COVID-19 crisis? 2) What measures have been implemented to help communities manage and adapt coping mechanism during this crisis? and 3) How has the community shown resilience and recovery in mitigating crises? A descriptive research design was employed comprising focus groups and interviews. We sampled 28 participants from 7 non-governmental organizations and 12 communities in rural and urban Jamaica. The analysis generated policy recommendations.

The lived experiences and unmet needs of prostate and colorectal male cancer survivors in rural Virginia: A qualitative study

AbstractBackgroundThe goal of this study was to gain an in‐depth understanding about the lived experiences and unmet needs of rural male cancer survivors.MethodsFocus groups were conducted with male survivors of prostate (N = 14) and colorectal cancers (N = 10), from rural Virginia. Demographic and clinical information were collected via surveys. A focus group guide contained questions about needs, lifestyles, and social networks of rural male cancer survivors. Focus group data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis guidelines.ResultsFour primary themes emerged from the data: (1) contending with health problems, (2) quality and availability of health care services, (3) coping strategies to navigate survivorship, and (4) advocating for cancer prevention. Survivors had to contend with physical and emotional problems, which were a result of their cancer treatments. Due to their rural location, survivors had difficulty accessing health care services and had a limited understanding of the cancer‐related resources that existed in their counties. Family support, religiosity and acceptance served as important coping strategies. Many felt strongly about promoting cancer‐related education and awareness.ConclusionThe lived experiences and unmet needs of rural male cancer survivors comprised several challenges, which included health problems and lack of health care access. Coping mechanisms comprised reliance on familial bonds and religion. Findings from this study reveal the need for tailored interventions to target the health care, psychosocial, and informational needs of rural male cancer survivors.

Family Psychological Distress among OFW Parents and their Children in the Middle East: A Mixed Method Study

Aims: This study aims to examine the psychological impact of family separation on Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their children, with a focus on emotional distress, coping strategies, and the long-term effects of prolonged separation on family dynamics. Sample: The study involved 50 OFW parents residing in Dubai and 50 of their children aged 8-18 living in the Philippines, providing a dual perspective on the experiences of both parents and children. Study Design: A mixed-methods research design was utilized, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches to offer a comprehensive understanding of the psychological impacts of family separation. Place and Duration of Study: Data were collected between January and August 2024, with participants recruited through community organizations supporting OFWs in Dubai. Methodology: Quantitative data were collected using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ). Semi-structured interviews provided qualitative insights into emotional experiences, coping mechanisms, and the challenges of reintegration. Statistical analyses explored correlations between separation duration, communication frequency, and psychological distress. Results: Quantitative findings from the ANOVA revealed that OFW parents had a significantly higher mean depression score (16.3, SD = 5.4) compared to their children (14.4, SD = 4.2), F (1, 98) = 4.21, p < 0.05. Anxiety levels were similarly elevated in both parents (18.1, SD = 6.2) and children (18.6, SD = 5.7), with no significant difference, F (1, 98) = 0.12, p > 0.05. A positive correlation (p < 0.01) was found between the length of separation (average 3.5 years) and psychological distress. Frequent communication was associated with lower anxiety levels (p < 0.01). Qualitative analysis identified seven key themes: emotional burden of separation, coping strategies, impact on family dynamics, reintegration challenges, mental health and well-being, support systems, and emotional regulation. Parents expressed regret over missing family milestones, while children reported feelings of abandonment. Some families, however, demonstrated resilience through strong communication practices and emotional regulation skills. Conclusion: The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive mental health interventions that address the psychological challenges experienced by OFW families. Emotional support systems, in addition to financial assistance, are essential to mitigating the emotional toll of prolonged separation and fostering healthier family dynamics.

Mental health and lifestyle-related behaviors in medical students in a Jordanian University, and variations by clerkship status

BackgroundThe rigors of medical education often take a toll on students' mental well-being, resulting in heightened stress, anxiety, depression, somatization, and thoughts of self-harm. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of mental health problems among Jordanian medical students (Yarmouk University), explore the links between mental state and demographic and lifestyle factors, and compare mental health profiles between pre-clinical/pre-clerkship (years 1–3) and clinical/clerkship (years 4–6) students.MethodsAn online survey was distributed to undergraduate medical students at Yarmouk University. Mental health was measured using validated tools (depression: Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-9; eating disorders: SCOFF; Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, GAD-7; Somatic Symptoms: Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-15; overall stress (single-item measure); ability to handle stress; stressors and coping mechanisms. Data on sociodemographic factors, academic performance, and lifestyle choices, also were collected. Bivariate and multivariable analyses evaluated the associations between academic level and mental health, accounting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors.ResultsOf the 618 medical students who responded, 48.4% screened positive for depression, 36.7% for anxiety, and 63.6% for high level of stress. Slightly over half experienced somatic symptoms, and 28.6% exhibited signs of eating disorders. Roughly, 26% had suicidal thoughts, as measured by item 9 of the PHQ-9 scale. Low reported rates of healthy behaviors were observed (e.g. balanced diets, 5.7%; vigorous physical activity, 17.0%). Smoking prevalence was 24.6%, notably higher among clinical students. At the multivariable level, stress, insomnia, eating disorders and cigarette smoking were significantly associated with depression, anxiety and somatization. Higher physical activity scores were associated with lower depression risk. Females were significantly more likely than males to fall in more severe somatization categories.ConclusionThis study highlights the need to address the alarming rates of mental health problems among Jordanian medical students. While few significant differences were observed between pre-clinical and clinical students, the high rates of depression, anxiety, stress, and negative health practices in both groups suggest the need for interventions that begin at enrollment as well as during transitions to clinical settings. Prioritizing mental health support and promoting healthier lifestyles among medical students are vital steps toward nurturing resilient, well-rounded future medical professionals.

Critical roles of leadership and management to the suffocation of tertiary education sector during the Covid-19 pandemic: A critique of human migration

This research explores the coping mechanisms of the tertiary education sector during the Covid-19 pandemic from the point of view of the restricted human migration. The research is conceptual and empirical in nature within the qualitative research paradigm. Interviewing technique and narrative enquiry were employed to generate data pertaining to the restricted human mobility during the Covid-19 pandemic. Out of the population of 25 public higher education institutions, in South Africa, only 2 were conveniently sampled for intensive study on restricted human migration of their employees during the Covid-19 lockdown. This paper is therefore, a case study of 2 public higher education institutions. Research findings revealed that firstly, organisational efficacy took a nosedive during the Covid-19 pandemic. Secondly, there was a controversy of the mandatory immunizations within the migrants. Thirdly, the application of migration segregation aggravated the state of affairs. Fourthly, inhibition of the already planned face-to-face conference attendance crippled the education sector. Lastly, compromising of quality assessment practices particularly at institutions of higher learning was a disservice and disruptions to the education sector. Exemption of the education sector from the suffocation of restrictive health protocols in case of similar Covid-19 pandemics in future is recommended.

Crisis response strategies: a digital reluctance perspective

AbstractThis research examines the convergence of digitalisation and managerial capabilities in shaping effective crisis response strategies, with a particular focus on understanding the factors that contribute to managers’ digital reluctance. In a two-wave study conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2022) through a Dynamic Managerial Capability (DMC) lens, we incorporate the qualitative data from managers of four coworking spaces into a theoretical model that assesses digitalisation as a determinant of DMC in crisis management. Our findings show that digital sensing, digital seizing, and digital reconfiguration capabilities effectively coordinate the survival process. Additionally, we introduce the concept of ‘digital reluctance’ as a constraint on DMC in the context of digitalisation. This behaviour stems from a combination of social, human and cognitive factors, including an avoidance of costly digital tools due to limited resources, scepticism about the ability of digital tools to address core challenges, lack of a compelling competitive advantage, intrinsic confidence in digital maturity, challenges in managing employee learning, and reluctance to sustain digital initiatives that do not yield immediate results. With a theoretical contribution to the crisis management literature, our study provides a better understanding of digital coping mechanisms, highlighting the importance of managers’ social, human and cognitive capabilities. Practically, we analyse the managerial perspectives and pathways for adopting digital technologies to survive in crisis disruptions, against liquidity and solvency threats. Finally, we outline the relevant strategies for achieving business outcomes at four different levels of leveraging digitalisation and DMC exploitation.

Perinatal care in the earthquake disaster of the century: Nurses’ and midwives’ experiences

AbstractAimTo determine the experiences of nurses and midwives providing perinatal care in an earthquake area.BackgroundOn February 6, 2023, two earthquakes measuring 7.8 and 7.6 magnitudes struck Turkey, affecting a large area. It is crucial for perinatal care to be rapidly organized, provided under the most suitable conditions, and delivered by qualified health professionals. Understanding the post‐disaster experiences of nurses and midwives is crucial to addressing this issue.MethodThis is a qualitative study using phenomenological methodology with 8 nurses and 12 midwives in the earthquake‐affected area. Personal information and semistructured interview forms were used for data collection. Content analysis was used for data analysis.ResultsParticipants had a mean age of 33.75 years. The experiences of nurses and midwives were grouped into five themes: emotions experienced, challenges encountered, problems in perinatal services, coping mechanisms, and recommendations. The emotions experienced theme encompasses both positive and negative emotions. The challenges encountered theme includes challenging environmental conditions, organizational issues, problems with medical supplies and drugs, and being a victim of the earthquake. The problems in perinatal services theme includes pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum services. The coping mechanism's theme encompasses problem‐focused and emotion‐focused coping strategies. The recommendations theme includes education and awareness, preparedness for disasters, and sustainable services.Implications for nursing/midwifery and health policyNurses and midwives working in the earthquake‐affected area experienced numerous physical and psychological challenges and encountered difficulties in delivering health services. A disaster education course including simulated disaster drills and practice can be integrated into the education system. Strengthening healthcare facilities against disasters and raising awareness among the community are crucial.

Exploring lived experiences with tooth loss among fully edentulous patients attending Makerere University Dental Hospital, Kampala, Uganda

BackgroundOne of the most prevalent oral health issues affecting mankind is tooth loss. Besides extractions due to periodontal disease and caries, accidents and lack of dental knowledge can also result in tooth loss. Nevertheless, no known published studies have examined how edentulous patients in Uganda have lived with tooth loss. The objective of the present study was to investigate experiences of tooth loss among Ugandan edentulous patients attending Makerere University Dental Hospital.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional qualitative study using purposive recruitment of respondents. A total of 15 respondents were chosen from a variety of socio-economic groups. Qualitative data were collected using oral interviews in form of note taking and an audio-recorder. The data collected comprised the causes of tooth loss, the physical and psychological effects of losing teeth, the difficulties in managing oral hygiene when one is toothless, coping mechanisms, and supportive interventions after losing natural teeth. The collected data were transcribed and analyzed thematically using a software, Atlas Ti. The generated qualitative data were summarized as text, while demographic characteristics were presented in a table.ResultsOral infections such as periodontal disease (which destroy tooth supporting tissues), tooth decay and trauma from accidents were reportedly the main causes of tooth loss. In case of tooth pain as a first symptom, most patients choose self-medication with over-the-counter drugs and home remedies. They only consult dental professionals when the condition deteriorates. Tooth loss was associated with problems of eating, facial aesthetics and low self-esteem.ConclusionThe present study found that tooth loss was caused by periodontal disease, tooth decay and trauma from accidents. Loss of teeth was escalated by poor health seeking behavior. Tooth loss resulted in pain, eating difficulties, speech difficulties, poor facial appearance and consequently low self-esteem.

Exploring distance learning in rural private schools in the Philippines: Challenges, coping mechanisms, and model development

The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant changes to the educational landscape, impacting not only public schools but also private learning institutions. This study explores the experiences of private schools at the administrative and faculty levels, focusing on the challenges encountered and the coping mechanisms employed in implementing distance learning. A descriptive phenomenology research design was used, emphasizing the subjective experiences of private school administrators and teachers. The researchers applied phenomenology to understand the core structure of their experiences in remote teaching and learning, with the goal of informing best practices and guiding potential changes in policies, theories, or responses to distance learning.Private schools faced a range of challenges due to this sudden shift, including insufficient professional preparation for teachers and inadequate technological infrastructure, both of which significantly affected the quality of distance learning. Despite these constraints, school leaders and teachers collaborated to propose strategies for mitigating the impact of these challenges. Key recommendations include prioritizing internet connectivity as a basic project for IT infrastructure with the support of school personnel and community leaders. Additional strategies involve offering diverse teaching modalities, conducting learner assessments, establishing effective communication and feedback systems, practicing efficient time management, fostering positive relationships, demonstrating professional integrity, advocating for ongoing training and simplified instruction, and recognizing the unique value of each learner within their academic environment.

The significance of culture for social sustainability – a discussion of cultural security and insecurity in neighbourhoods

ABSTRACT Creating a socially sustainable city will often encompass strategies to ensure that the different communities are “cohesive” and that the many neighbourhoods are diverse to prevent residential segregation. However, the literature on diverse communities and urban diversity has detailed processes of avoidance, exclusion, and friction as well as addressed the coping mechanisms that some residents develop. In this paper, we analyse ethnographic data from Oslo, Norway, with the aim to contribute to the research on neighbourhood social sustainability and residential preferences. It is claimed that to understand such preferences, the concepts of cultural security and cultural insecurity are useful. People’s interest in “culture” may pose a challenge to policy makers’ visions for socially sustainable urban development.

Spiritual needs of family caregivers in palliative care

ObjectiveThe primary aim of this study is to elucidate the spiritual needs encountered by family members who intricately engage in the progression of illness within the palliative care framework, thus assuming the paramount responsibility of caregiving.MethodsThis study was approved by the Institutional Review Board and Ethics Committee of the University of Health Sciences İzmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital (17/01/2022–2022/01–16). The research was designed as a prospective study. It was conducted through face-to-face, interactive interviews with family caregivers of patients admitted to the palliative care unit at Tepecik Training and Research Hospital between April 2022 and December 2022. The interviews were performed using a phenomenological approach and structured in a question-and-answer format. Data from twenty family caregivers were analyzed using thematic analysis. The questions were specifically designed to explore the psychological processes, spirituality, conceptions of God, meaning-making, and coping strategies of the family caregivers.ResultsCaregivers experienced various psychological and emotional states progressing through stages of denial, anger, and acceptance. Spirituality emerged as a critical coping mechanism providing strength and meaning amidst caregiving challenges. Caregivers’ perceptions of God varied from loving to punitive, influencing their interpretations of suffering and caregiving roles.ConclusionThis study underscores the importance of integrating spiritual support into palliative care practices. Recognizing and addressing caregivers’ spiritual needs is crucial for enhancing their well-being and improving the quality of palliative care delivery. Training healthcare professionals in spiritual care and implementing targeted interventions can effectively support family caregivers in their caregiving journey.

Coping with an awake brain tumour resection in patients and their primary contacts: a qualitative study

Abstract Background The diagnosis and awake removal of a brain tumour is a major life event. A better understanding of the needs of this group of patients and their primary contacts in the perioperative trajectory can further improve care. Methods Adult patients who underwent an awake craniotomy in the Erasmus MC, the Netherlands, and their primary contacts were interviewed 1-2 weeks prior to surgery and 2-4 weeks after surgery. Semi-structured interviews on the impact of the diagnosis on their lives and coping mechanisms with the AC-procedure were conducted. Interview transcripts were analyzed in accordance with the principles of grounded theory. Results 21 patients and 19 primary contacts were interviewed at least once during this period. Analyses and coding of the transcripts resulted in a conceptual model, distinguishing coping with the disease and coping with specific procedure of awake craniotomy. In general, participants tended to rely on their pre-existing ways of coping. Situation specific coping mostly referred to perceiving control, and related to that, trust in the medical team. Conclusion Patients with a brain tumour and their primary contacts perceive coping with the AC-procedure as a part of coping with the disease. Although the procedure may be perceived as stressful, at the same time it offers hope and prospect. In coping with the specifics of the AC-procedure, we found that feeling in control and as an extension of that, trust in the AC-team were key aspects.

The Effectiveness of Psychological Resources Supporting a Person’s Well-Being in the Face of Uncertainty and Stress: A Research Contributing to SDG Objectives

Objective: the aim of the study is to identify the combinations of psychological capital components (PsyCap) and person’s traits which can impact the person’s well-being in the situation of uncertainity and stress. Theoretical framework: the methodogical principles of determinism (the assumption that all behaviors have a specific cause) and systemic approach (analyzing complex phenomena by studying the interrelations between various components as a whole) were adopted. The main theory which was taken into account is an Evidence-Based Positive Approach of psychological Capital (Luthans F. et al, 2017). Methods: the theoretical review of the psychological aspects of uncertainty and the psychological survey was conducted (with the application of Psychological Capital Questionnaire-PCQ, Myers–Briggs Type Indicator-MBTI, The Spielberger-Hanin anxiety test-STAI) Results and discussion: the study revealed that some combinations of personal traits and components of psychological capital can lead to adaptation during uncertainty and stress more effectively even with higher level of trait anxiety. Research implications: the results can be applied in the sphere of psychological support to deal with potential challenges with limited resources by organizing the effective mechanism of coping with uncertainty and stress. Originality: the study contributes the 3th objective of SDG (good health and well-being). The algorithm of effective perception of uncertainty was shown and some consistent patterns of PsyCap components were revealed.

Navigating policing and work-life balance in the South Pacific

ABSTRACT Policing in the South Pacific is influenced by a myriad of factors including cultural norms, historical legacies, socio-economic disparities, and geopolitical dynamics. Against this backdrop, law enforcement officers face multifaceted challenges in reconciling the demands of their profession with personal and familial obligations. This article discusses the challenges faced by police officers as they attempt to balance their professional and personal lives. Interviews were conducted with male (N = 50) and female (N = 50) constables from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) to gain insight into the challenges they face as RSIPF officers, the support available to them and the further resources they see as necessary to improve their work-life balance. Findings reveal a complex interplay of factors shaping officers’ work-life dynamics, including shift work schedules, high-pressure environments, community expectations, and the emotional toll of policing in small, tight-knit societies. It also highlights the significance of informal support networks, cultural values, and adaptive coping mechanisms in mediating the impact of work-related stressors on officers’ well-being. Notably, data suggest that RSIPF work-life balance, wellness and workplace structures are highly gendered. These findings offer insights that can inform the development of more effective support mechanisms and policies aimed at enhancing the holistic wellbeing of police officers. They further substantiate the need for greater formal support systems within the RSIPF to assist employees with managing their work-life balance.

Healing the Self: Mental Health and Existential Recovery in the Select Works of Don DeLillo

This paper explores the coping mechanisms of existential beings during moments of crisis, focusing on the works of Don DeLillo, Zero K, The Body Artist, and Falling Man. Grounded in existential philosophy, psychology, and psychiatry, the study analyzes how DeLillo’s characters navigate crises of meaning, death, and isolation, revealing core existential traits both during and after their experiences. Drawing on theories from Sartre, Heidegger, Nietzsche, Frankl, and Yalom, the research demonstrates that these characters confront alienation, death, and absurdity by embracing authenticity, rebellion, and self-transformation. Through close reading and thematic analysis, the paper argues that DeLillo’s characters use suffering and trauma as catalysts for existential growth, reflecting the human capacity to find meaning and transformation in moments of profound disorientation. The study bridges literature and the humanities, illustrating how the existential crises depicted in DeLillo’s works resonate with universal themes of coping, identity, and survival in the face of the absurd. It will also propose the C.A.R.E model as a healing way to overcome crisis.

The Role of Psychological Resilience, Coping Mechanisms and Locus of Control in Managing Students' Perceived Stress during Exams

Abstract: With this study we provide conclusive evidence on the importance of psychological resilience, coping mechanisms, self-esteem and locus of control for optimal adaptation in situations of intense psychological stress, such as the stress perceived by students in exam situations. The data reveal that out of 120 students included in the study group, 29 students, i.e., 33.2 ⁒ were in the high stress zone and 4 students, i.e., 3.3 ⁒ were in the dangerously high stress zone, which can be explained by the poor functioning of some coping mechanisms and psychological resilience. For example, self-blame as a variable of coping mechanisms has a negative influence on the level of perceived stress and explains 49.72% of the stress level. Also, by comparison, some variables play a positive role in stress management and explain in different proportions the level of perceived stress, such as perspective-taking (35.64%), positive reappraisal (27.64%), positive refocusing (20.25%) or self-esteem (12.33%). The study also revealed that females better manage specific manifestations of perceived stress in exam situations, proving that they more easily establish interpersonal relationships, which in turn can support some healthy response behaviors, how to solve specific tasks and adapt more easily to some specific demands of academic work.

Analysing the Impact of Natural Disasters, Pandemics and Other Crisis on Employment and Workforce Dynamics

This study investigates the impact of recent crises such as natural disasters and pandemics on employment and workforce dynamics using a Random Forest machine learning model. The data was collected through a detailed questionnaire analyzing various factors, including demographic information, employment status, the impact of crises, job security, coping mechanisms, and future outlook. The findings reveal that most respondents are young adults, with a higher percentage engaged in full-time or self-employment roles. Crises, notably COVID-19, led to significant financial impacts such as reduced salaries and layoffs, with many experiencing jobs in security and moderate to high stress levels. A substantial portion of the workforce transitioned to remote work, though many reported inadequate employer support. The analysis of the Random Forest model indicates a moderate performance in predicting workforce dynamics, with accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 scores highlighting the complexity of this issue. The study provides practical recommendations such as enhancing remote work infrastructure, improving financial and mental health support, and promoting workforce adaptability to mitigate the adverse effects of future crises and ensure a resilient workforce.

Decoding the interplay of medical professionalism, mental well-being, and coping in undergraduate medical students across culture: using structural equation modeling

IntroductionThe rigorous nature of medical education, long and night shifts, and prevalent issues like stress, anxiety, and depression affect medical students’ mental well-being and medical professionalism. This study aims to explore the intricate relationships between mental well-being, medical professionalism, and coping strategies, among undergraduate medical students, utilizing structural equation modeling (SEM) to unravel these dynamics.MethodsConducted at Universiti Sains Malaysia, this cross-sectional study involved 234 medical students from the 1st, 3rd, and 5th years of the MBBS program. Data were collected via five validated survey instruments: DASS-9, TEQ, Dundee, Brief COPE, and CBI, through Google Forms. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. The surveys assessed mental well-being (burnout, anxiety, depression, stress), coping strategies, and medical professionalism attributes. Model fit was evaluated using established indices.ResultsFindings indicated that professional behavior reduces burnout and negatively impacts negative coping strategies (NCSs). Additionally, medical professionalism indirectly enhances empathy and positively influences CSs. Conversely, psychological distress increases NCSs and reduces empathy. Positive coping strategies (PCSs) enhance empathy levels, while MWB issues elevate NCSs.DiscussionThe study underscores the vital role of professional behavior in mitigating burnout and fostering positive coping mechanisms among medical students. Addressing MWB issues through targeted interventions can enhance empathy and professional behavior, ultimately improving the quality of patient care.

Affective Responses, Appraisal processes, and Coping Mechanisms in Intercultural Teams: Insights from the COVID-19 Pandemic

This research study examines the challenges faced by intercultural teams and the coping mechanisms employed while working on a virtual business professional project during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing upon affect event theory and appraisal theory, the study sheds light on the interplay between affective responses, cognitive appraisals, and coping mechanisms adopted by teams during the pandemic crisis. The findings offer valuable insights into effective strategies for steering intercultural teams during and after pandemic crisis. These insights are beneficial for both scholars and practitioners seeking to improve intercultural communication and collaboration within virtual work settings.