Perceptions Of Social Support Research Articles

Impact of Sport Engagement and Social Support on the Health-Related Quality of Life of Youth Athletes With Physical Disabilities

Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is a multidimensional concept focusing on the impact of health status on quality of life. The purpose of this study was to examine if sport engagement and sport-specific social support predicted HRQOL among adolescents with physical disabilities. Sixty-eight participants completed surveys assessing sport engagement, sport-specific social support, and HRQOL. Participants had moderate to high perceptions of sport engagement, social support, and HRQOL supporting the affirmation model of disability. Based on a canonical correlation, esteem, information, and tangible social support and sport engagement—confidence—were the strongest predictor variables of the sport engagement/social support variant, which was linked to the HRQOL variant predicted by emotional, social, and school functioning. The findings support the importance of social support and confidence in the sport context for the HRQOL of youth with physical disabilities.

Medication Adherence of Older Adults with Hypertension: A Systematic Review.

Hypertension (HTN) significantly increases the risk of stroke and heart disease, which are the leading causes of death and disability globally, particularly among older adults. Antihypertensive medication is a proven treatment for blood pressure control and preventing complications. However, medication adherence rates in older adults with HTN are low. In this review, we systematically identified factors influencing medication adherence in older adults with HTN. We applied the PRISMA guidelines and conducted systematic searches on PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar in July 2022 to identify preliminary studies reporting factors influencing medication adherence among older adults with HTN. The convergent integrated analysis framework suggested by the Joanna Briggs Institute for systematic reviews was adopted for data synthesis. Initially, 448 articles were identified, and after title and abstract screening, 16 articles qualified for full-text review. During this phase, three articles were excluded for reporting on irrelevant populations or focusing on issues beyond the review's aim, leaving thirteen studies in the final review. After data synthesis, fifteen themes were extracted from the key findings of the included studies. The most prevalent themes included the number of medications used (53.9%, n=7 studies), financial status (38.5%, n=5), sex (38.5%, n=5), age (30.1%, n=4), duration of disease (23.1%, n=3), comorbidities (23.1%, n=3), and health compliance (23.1%, n=3). Other themes, such as education, health literacy, health belief, medication belief, perception of illness, patient-physician relationship, self-efficacy, and social support, were also identified. The findings of this review highlight critical areas for developing innovative, evidence-based programs to improve medication adherence in hypertensive older adults. Insights from this review can contribute to improving medication adherence and preventing future health complications.

Revisão de escopo da aplicação do Postgraduate Hospital Educational Environment Measure (PHEEM) na residência médica

Abstract Introduction: The PHEEM (postgraduate hospital educational environment measure) is a validated and reliable instrument to assess the educational environment in medical residency programs. Objective: To map the application of the PHEEM questionnaire in medical residency, evaluate the results found, positive and negative aspects and points for improvement. Method: We performed a scoping review according to the Joanna Briggs institution’s methodology. Studies that followed the PCC structure were included, as follows: P (participants) = resident physicians of any specialty; C (concept) = The PHEEM is an instrument used to assess the educational environment in medical residency, through a 40-item questionnaire divided into 3 subscales that include perception of autonomy, teaching and social support. C (context)= studies on PHEEM in medical residency of any specialty. PubMed, EMBASE and the Virtual Health Library databases were the data sources. Results: We identified 1588 references, and after reading the title and abstract, 50 references were selected for full reading, and 36 studies were included. The studies were carried out in 22 countries, and most revealed a more positive than negative educational environment, albeit with room for improvement. In the subscales, the perception of autonomy was more positive than negative, and the perception of teaching revealed that most programs are moving in the right direction. However, when evaluating social support, the results were divided between an unpleasant environment and an environment with more pros than cons. The main highlighted positive points were low racial and sexual discrimination, possibility of working in a team, adequate level of responsibilities, accessible teachers with good teaching skills, learning opportunities and participation in educational events. The main negative points were lack of adequate food and accommodation during the shifts, excessive workload, lack of feedback from preceptors and lack of protected time for study and the culture of blaming the resident. Conclusion: The application of PHEEM revealed that in most medical residency programs the educational environment was more positive than negative, albeit with room for improvement. Efforts are needed to improve the educational environment, especially social support, in medical residency programs.

Factors associated with dental students' mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal study.

The aim of the present study was to examine the relationships between gender, sense of coherence (SOC), social support, perception of academic environment and mental health of dental students during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A longitudinal study involving 65 undergraduates enrolled from the first to sixth semesters in the bachelor dental course of Universidade Federal Fluminense, Brazil, was conducted. Baseline data (2018) included age, gender, SOC, social support, stress control and perception of education environment. Depression, anxiety and stress were assessed at baseline (response rate: 93%) and two-year follow-up (2020; response rate: 37%). Structural Equation Modelling was used to test the relationships between independent variables and depression, anxiety and stress during COVID-19 pandemic. Lower social support (β = -0.15), lower stress control (β = -0.20) and lower SOC (β = -0.39) were directly linked to higher depression (β = 0.22). Female gender (β = 0.22), worse perception of educational environment (β = -0.24) and lower SOC (β = -0.57) directly predicted higher anxiety. Female gender (β = 0.18), lower stress control (β = -0.21), and lower SOC (β = -0.46) directly predicted higher stress. The link between gender and both depression and stress, was mediated by stress control. Social support was indirectly linked to depression and stress via SOC. Perception of educational environment mediated the link between SOC and anxiety. Mental health of dental students during COVID-19 pandemic was influenced by demographic characteristics, perception of educational environment, social support and SOC through both direct and indirect pathways.

Validation of the Paykel Suicide Scale and the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale in Spanish Women during the Perinatal Period

Introduction. No specific instruments are available to detect the risk of suicide in women during the perinatal period. Suicide in perinatal women is little studied despite being one of the main causes of maternal mortality. Its prevalence has increased by 100% in the United States in a decade. Moreover, it has consequences for the mother and the newborn. Objective. To validate the Paykel Suicide Scale and the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale in Spanish women during the perinatal period. Materials and Methods. Cross‐sectional study with Spanish women who were pregnant or who had given birth less than 18 months ago. Information was collected on sociodemographic variables, obstetric variables, and the newborn. A questionnaire that included both suicide scales and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EDPS) was used. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA), convergent and criterion validation, as well as internal consistency analysis, were performed. Results. In total, 237 women participated. The EFA determined that in the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale 4 components explained 54.8% of the variance, while in the Paykel Scale, a single component explained 53.0% of the variance. In the convergent validity, the risk of suicide or suicidal ideation was related to the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale and the Paykel Suicide Scale, respectively, with the variables: perception of low social support, risk of intimate partner violence, level of anxiety, history of mental pathology, and having experienced a stressful event in the last year, among others (p < 0.05). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale scores was 0.88 (95% CI: 0.82–0.93), and for the Paykel Scale, it was 0.90 (95% CI: 0.85–0.95). The value of Cronbach’s alpha (α) was placed for the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale at 0.806 and for the Paykel Suicide Scale at 0.766. Conclusion. Both scales presented adequate psychometric characteristics to be used as a screening instrument for suicide risk in Spanish women in the perinatal period.

CARGA MENTAL DE TRABALHO E O APOIO SOCIAL EM TRABALHADORES DA ATENÇÃO PRIMÁRIA À SAÚDE

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the relationship between mental workload and social support in Primary Health Care workers. Method: This is a quantitative cross-sectional survey with healthcare professionals from Primary Health Care in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Data were collected online between July 2021 and April 2022, using the questionnaire with sociodemographic, employment and healthcare profile information; Job Stress Scale; and Subjective Mental Workload Scale. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, Spearman’s correlation, chi-square or Fischer’s exact test (with statistical significance established at p<0.05) and internal consistency using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Results: The largest group of workers had an adequate mental workload (48.7%) and there was a prevalence of low social support (57.6%). Mental load had a significant association with having time for leisure (p<0.001) and satisfaction with work (p=0.028). Furthermore, satisfaction with work had a significant relationship with social support (p<0.001). Furthermore, social support had negative and significant correlations with mental load in the health consequences (r=-0.377; p<0.001) and work characteristics (r=-0.192; p=0.008) dimensions. Conclusion: Workers with a high mental workload have a lower perception of social support, which may have an impact on their health, considering work characteristics. Furthermore, aspects of satisfaction and leisure activities should be promoted as a way of promoting quality of life at work.

Sociodemographic and Clinical Profile, Adherence to Treatment, and Perceived Social Support among Hemodialysis Patients

The presence of social support and medication adherence have a significant impact on the management of chronic renal disease. Aim:The objective of this study was to assess the correlation between sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, perceived social support, and treatment adherence in hemodialysis patients at a provincial hospital in Biliran during the last quarter of 2022. Methods:The present study employed a quantitative research approach utilizing a descriptive-correlational design. Data collection was conducted through the administration of a three-part survey questionnaire. Results:The study's findings indicate a moderate correlation between the job position's sociodemographic profile and the perceived social support from significant others. Similarly, a moderate correlation was observed between the clinical profile of the kind of vascular utilized and the perceived social support from significant others. Astrong and statistically significant association was seen between marital status and compliance with therapy. There was a lack of statistically significant correlation seen between the perceived level of social support and adherence to medication, attendance at hemodialysis sessions, and adherence to food and fluid restrictions in the context of therapy. In general, the findings indicate a lack of statistically meaningful association between perceived social support and treatment adherence. Conclusion:The perceived social support of a significant other is influenced by both employment level and the type of vascular used. When an individual secures employment and develops an arteriovenous fistula, it leads to a heightened perception of social support from their significant other. Consequently, an adherence improvement strategy was established

The relationship between graduate students' perception of social support and academic procrastinations

Amaç: Bu araştırma lisansüstü öğrencilerinin “sosyal destek” algıları ile “akademik erteleme” eğilimleri arasındaki ilişkiyi, ayrıca “sosyal destek” algısının “akademik erteleme” eğilimi üzerindeki etkisini incelemek amacıyla yapılmıştır.
 
 Yöntem: Araştırmanın örneklemini Kayseri Üniversitesi'nde öğrenim gören 220 öğrenci oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada kullanılan nicel araştırma deseni ilişkisel taramadır. Veri toplama yöntemi olarak anket kullanılmıştır. Katılımcılar farklı “cinsiyet, yaş, medeni durum, uzmanlık alanı ve ekonomik durum” değişkenlerine göre basit tesadüfi örnekleme yöntemi ile seçilmiştir. Katılımcılar anketlere gönüllülük esasına göre katılım sağlamışlardır. Araştırma anketi çevrimiçi platformlarda doldurulmuştur.
 
 Bulgular: Araştırma sonucuna göre sosyal destek algısı ve kavramın alt boyutları ile “akademik erteleme eğilimi” arasında anlamlı (negatif yönlü) korelasyonlar bulunmaktadır.
 
 Sonuç: Sosyal destek algısının bir bütün olarak ve kavramın alt boyutlarından olan “arkadaş desteği” ve “özel kişi desteğinin” “akademik erteleme eğilimine” anlamlı (negatif yönlü) bir etkisinin bulunduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Buna karşın “aile desteği” alt boyutunun akademik erteleme eğilimine anlamlı derecede bir etkisi bulunmamaktadır.

Perception of College Service Quality, Social Support, and Self Regulation as Predictor of College Student Subjective Well Being

Subjective well-being is an indicator of mental health that plays an essential role in college students because it significantly predicts academic achievement and dropout rates. This study aimed to determine the effect of perceptions on the quality of higher education services, social support, and self-regulation on college students' subjective well-being. The sample in this study was 325 college students from various universities in Indonesia. The data in this study were obtained through the College Student Subjective Well-Being Questionnaire, the Higher Education Performance Scale, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Self Regulation Questionnaire to measure variables in this study. The collected data were then analyzed using multiple linear regression. This study showed that student perceptions of college service quality, social support, and self-regulation significantly influence college students' subjective well-being. Student perceptions of the college service quality were the main predictor of college students' subjective well-being. The implication of this research was that to improve the subjective well-being of college students, a comprehensive approach is needed that includes quality services from universities, social support, and good self-regulation skills in students.

Religiosity as a Stress Buffer: An Investigation of Muslim Women's Work-Life Conflict and Job Stress among Minangkabau Women

This study investigates the impact of work-life conflict on work stress among Minangkabau women in diverse organizational settings. Data from 179 respondents were collected through purposive sampling using a survey approach. The research instrument incorporated variables such as perceived social support, work-life conflict, religiosity, and work stress. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were employed for data analysis. Results indicate a significant influence of work-life conflict and religiosity on work stress levels, underscoring its pivotal role in shaping employees' psychological well-being. However, hypotheses concerning perceived social support (PSS) were not supported, revealing the intricacy of these relationships. Hypothesis testing demonstrated a notable relationship between work-life conflict and work stress, while perceived social support exhibited no significant impact. The discussion highlights the imperative of managing work-life conflict for stress reduction. The complex interplay among religiosity, perceived social support, and stress levels, moderated by contextual factors, was acknowledged. Recommendations include further research on religiosity and stress, exploring factors influencing PSS, and an in-depth analysis of social support dynamics. In conclusion, this study enhances our comprehension of nuanced relationships impacting work stress, providing insights for future interventions and managerial strategies to foster a supportive work environment.

The effect of “Housing First” on mobile and digital media usage by people experiencing homelessness: A program evaluation based on a randomized controlled trial in Spain

In 2014, a non-governmental organization called HOGAR SÍ initiated the Hábitat program as a pioneer attempt to implement the Housing First model in Spain. The present study is part of the evaluation of this program, which was carried out from May 2015 to February 2020 using a form of a randomized controlled trial. The treatment group was compared with a control group (people experiencing homelessness but not selected as Hábitat users), keeping track of their evolution over 18 months. Among the many dimensions that were evaluated (coverage of basic needs, life satisfaction, victimization, physical and mental health, etc.), the study analyzed social support and leisure activities involving the use of mobile media and other communication technologies—along similar lines to some previous research. The main results show that participating in the Hábitat program brought a few improvements in digital inclusion. That is the case of the higher use of mobile phones to receive calls, to connect to the Internet, or to have contact with relatives, partners, or friends. These gains seem to be significant for the increase in perception of available social support by Hábitat users, whereas these changes did not occur in the comparison group to the same extent. Additionally, participating in the program enhances satisfaction with leisure time, as well as the frequency of carrying out some activities such as shopping, watching TV, or doing a pastime or hobby. It could be concluded that the Hábitat program achieved significant improvements in areas beyond specific housing services. The positive effects regarding social support and leisure activities seem to be partly channeled through mobile phones and digital applications; nevertheless, we are aware that further research and discussion on the active role of these technologies in helping people experiencing homelessness is still necessary.

Double-edged effect of physical activity on non-suicidal self-injury among depressed adolescents: An analysis of underlying mechanisms

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is an emerging health concern is adolescents. The current research investigated the relationship between physical activity (PA) and NSSI frequency in depressed adolescents and analyzed the mediating role of perceived stress (PS), as well as the moderating role of perceived social support (PSS). 1675 depressed adolescents aged 12 to 18 years across 9 provinces in mainland China were recruited from December 2020 to December 2021. We employed the SPSS PROESS models to test the mediating effects and moderating effects. The age, gender, depression, peer bullying and rumination factors were controlled in the analysis. PA was negatively associated with PS, and PS was positively associated with NSSI frequency. However, PA exerted positive direct impacts on NSSI frequency. The total effect of PA on NSSI was positive and significant. PA exhibits a double-edged effect on NSSI frequency. Notably, for different physical activity levels, the positive impact of PA on NSSI only existed in high PA group. PSS effectively moderated and attenuated the effect of PS on NSSI. An appropriate level of PA should be maintained and the disadvantages of excessive activity should be avoided.

Türkiye Olimpik Hazırlık Merkezi ve Sporcu Eğitim Merkezi Sporcularının Sosyalleşme Düzeylerinin İncelenmesi

Socialization is a societal process that enables individuals to learn and internalize the values, beliefs, and norms of their society, starting from their family experiences. The purpose of this study is to examine the levels of socialization of 150 athletes (49 athletes from the Olympic Preparation Center, 101 athletes from the Athlete Training Center) engaged in athletics, shooting, fencing, and judo branches in the Turkey Olympic Preparation Center and Athlete Training Center in Kocaeli province, based on their demographic characteristics. In the research, data were collected using the "Social Relationship Elements Scale," adapted into Turkish by Duyan, Gelbal, and Çalık Var (2013), which aims to measure individuals' levels of socialization based on their perceptions of social support, along with a personal information form. Data analysis was conducted using the SPSS 26.0 package program. As a result of the analysis, a significant difference was found in the total score of athletes' social support perceptions and family support sub-dimensions based on the sports branch variable (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in Social Support Sub-Dimensions based on the Center to Which Athletes Belong and gender variables (p>0.05). Understanding the societal effects of sports and addressing the needs of athletes are considered important factors, and social support is evaluated as a crucial factor for achieving these goals. Additionally, it is emphasized that supporting amateur sports branches through sports policies and the effective involvement of families in this process are crucial. Keywords: Sports, Athlete, Socialization, Social support, Athlete Center

From absorption to action: unraveling the entrepreneurial path in external rural tourism through bricolage and social support perception

ABSTRACT External rural tourism entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in fortifying the local economy through the creation of employment opportunities, stimulation of consumer spending, and the generation of income. In consonance with social capital theory, this study systematically gathered data over four stages to analyze the absorptive capacities and entrepreneurial actions of 213 external rural tourism entrepreneurs in Yuanjia Village, Shaanxi Province. Key findings include: (1) The significantly and positively impact of individual absorptive capacity on entrepreneurial performance; (2) The positive influence of entrepreneurial bricolage on performance, concurrently serving as a partial mediator in the nexus between individual absorptive capacity and entrepreneurial performance; (3) The critical moderating role played by social support perception in shaping the relationship between individual absorptive capacity and entrepreneurial performance. This study augments the existing theoretical discourse surrounding external rural tourism entrepreneurs, providing valuable insights that inform strategic decision-making aimed at cultivating an environment conducive to the success of such external entrepreneurs.

SOCIAL CONNECTIONS AND SUICIDE DESIRE AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS

Abstract As the population of older adults in the U.S. continues to increase, so will the prevalence of critical mental health concerns such as suicide (CDC, 2020). The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide posits desire for suicide develops from the simultaneous presence of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness (Joiner, 2005). Low social connection and perceptions of low social support can result in feelings of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness among older adults (Van Orden et al., 2012). The purpose of this study was to understand the relationship between social connections (frequency of contact with others, both synchronous or “real-time” and/or asynchronous) and suicide desire among community-dwelling older adults who received home-delivered meals (HDM) during Covid-19. This cross-sectional study was part of a grant-funded project by the Administration for Community Living. Among a sample of 320 older adults in a large southeast metropolitan area, we identified 25 participants who had no social connections of any type within the past week. These individuals had the highest levels of suicide desire and loneliness, and had the lowest levels of perceived social support. Implications for practice and future research include: a) recognition of the social connections HDM volunteers provide to older adults who may be lonely and at risk of suicide, b) an understanding of suicide desire among older adults during the Covid-19 pandemic, and c) opportunities for nutrition service providers to invest in equipping HDM volunteers to respond to suicide.

EVALUATION OF A TECHNOLOGY-BASED EXERCISE PROGRAM FOR OLDER ADULTS IN THOSE WITH CHRONIC MEDICAL CONDITIONS

Abstract Although physical exercise is known to be beneficial, most older adults do not engage in recommended levels of physical activity, particularly those with chronic medical conditions. In an exploratory analysis, we evaluated the efficacy of a technology-based exercise program (Fittle) for sedentary community-dwelling adults ≥60 years of age with social support features in a subset of participants with ≥2 self-report chronic medical conditions. Participants in the Fittle condition received group training and were placed into teams to complete exercises at home via a computer tablet. They also were able to “chat” with other team members. Participants in the control condition were directed to exercise websites designed for older adults. A total of 181 participants with a mean age 70.1 years were randomized to the intervention or control condition. Participants were predominantly women (80.1%) and came from diverse backgrounds, with 13.4% self-identifying as Black or African American and 12.7% as Hispanic or Latino. Among 93 participants with ≥2 self-report chronic conditions, individuals in the intervention (versus control) arm described greater social support (t(162)=1.97, p=0.03) and less loneliness (t(163)=-1.97, p=0.03) at 6 months; there was a non-significant trend for higher self-report physical activity in the Fittle arm (t(166)=1.17, p=0.12). Fittle improved perceptions of social support and loneliness in older adults with chronic medical conditions. Further study is needed in a larger dedicated cohort of older adults with chronic medical conditions to determine Fittle’s efficacy in this population.

Relevance of spirituality and perceived social support to mental health of people with pre-existing mental health disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal investigation

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic and related measures have negatively impacted mental health worldwide. The main objective of the present longitudinal study was to investigate mental health in people living in Tyrol (Austria) and South Tyrol (Italy) during the COVID-19 pandemic and to report the prevalence of psychological distress among individuals with versus those without pre-existing mental health disorders (MHD) in the long-term (summer 2020–winter 2022). Here, we specifically focus on the relevance of spirituality and perceived social support in this regard.Methods161 individuals who had been diagnosed with MHD and 446 reference subjects participated in this online survey. Electronic data capture was conducted using the Computer-based Health Evaluation System and included both sociodemographic and clinical aspects as well as standardized questionnaires on psychological distress, spirituality, and the perception of social support.ResultsThe prevalence of psychological distress was significantly higher in individuals with MHD (36.6% vs. 12.3%) and remained unchanged among both groups over time. At baseline, the perception of social support was significantly higher in healthy control subjects, whereas the two groups were comparable in regards of the subjective relevance of faith. Reference subjects indicated significantly higher spiritual well-being in terms of the sense of meaning in life and peacefulness, which mediated in large part the between-group difference of psychological distress at follow-up. Notably, both faith and the perception of social support did not prove to be relevant in this context.ConclusionsThese findings point to a consistently high prevalence of psychological distress among people suffering from MHD and underscore the prominent role of meaning in life and peacefulness as a protective factor in times of crisis. Therapeutic strategies that specifically target spirituality may have a beneficial impact on mental health.

Role of family factors in provision and perception of social support for older people in Iran: a cross-sectional survey

BackgroundIran has experienced a very fast fertility transition. The process of demographic transition, coupled with modernization, has had considerable consequences for the structure and function of families. There is rising concern in Iran about a potential decline in family care and support for older people as a result of these changes. The main aim of this study was to provide a benchmark by examining current associations between family factors and older people’s social support, both perceived and received.MethodsA cross-sectional survey of a random sample of 644 people aged 60 + years resident in Tehran was conducted using stratified cluster random sampling method in 2015. Outcome variables were perceived social support, as measured by Social Provision Scale, and received instrumental social support. Multilevel mixed-effects models were used to examine the hypotheses.ResultsThe analyses showed that most of the family factors measured, including family size (p = 0.01), living arrangements (p = 0.05), and amount of contact with family members (p = 0.001) were associated with older people’s receipt of instrumental social support. Living arrangements and quality of relationships with family members were associated with older people’s perceptions of social support (p < 0.001). Also, a significant gender interaction was found in associations between family size and SPS (p = 0.03). Having a large size family was positively associated with higher SPS for women (Coef. = 3.9, p = 0.009) but not for men (Coef. = -0.4, p = 0.7).Conclusionfindings of this study support the premise that most of family factors play an important role in provision and perception of social support for Iranian older people. Further policies should mostly be selective of those at higher risk of low support such as widowed, childless, those living alone, having poor relationship with their relatives and those with worse health status. The results of this study may be utilized to target older populations who are at higher risk of low support with innovative programs that focus on building social networks and enhancing social support.

Perceptions of social support of solo women after gamete donation and of women in heterosexual partnerships after in vitro fertilization

Perceptions of social support of solo women after gamete donation and of women in heterosexual partnerships after in vitro fertilization

Postgraduate medical trainees at a Ugandan university perceive their clinical learning environment positively but differentially despite challenging circumstances: a cross-sectional study

PurposeThe clinical learning environment is an essential component in health professions’ education. Data are scant on how postgraduate trainees in sub-Saharan Africa perceive their medical school learning environments, and how those perceptions contribute to their engagement during training, their emotional wellbeing, and career aspirations. This study examined perceptions of postgraduate medical trainees (residents) in a resource-limited setting, regarding their learning environment and explored perceptual contributions to their career engagement during training. The data reported contribute to understanding how clinical learning environments can be improved in low-resource settings in Uganda and elsewhere.MethodsThis study was done at the Faculty of Medicine of Mbarara University of Science and Technology in Uganda. We used a descriptive cross-sectional design involving sequential mixed methods. Quantitative data were collected using the Postgraduate Hospital Educational Environment Measure (PHEEM). Qualitative data were collected using focus group discussions.ResultsNinety of the 113 eligible residents responded (79.6%). Of these, 62 (68.9%) were males, 51 (56.7%) were third-year trainees, and the majority (40%) of the residents were aged between 30 and 34 years. Overall PHEEM scored 98.22 ± 38.09; Role Autonomy scored 34.25 ± 13.69, Teaching scored 39.7 ± 13.81, and Social Support scored 24.27 ± 10.59. Gender differences occurred in the perceptions of teaching and social support. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.94 for the overall PHEEM. Five major themes were identified from the qualitative data (trainee support, supervision environment, engagement with overall learning environment, preparation for future practice, and challenges that impede training).ConclusionsOverall, this study suggests that postgraduate trainees at the institution perceived the clinical learning environment positively amidst challenges of limited resources. Trainees’ insights provided data that propose improvements on a number of domains in the learning environment.