Coping strategies and life satisfaction among undergraduate medical students

Abstract

Objective: To assess coping strategies and life satisfaction among undergraduate medical (MBBS) students. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Azra Naheed Medical College, Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan, from November 2024 to February 2025. Participants were recruited using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Demographic information, including age, gender, and year of study, was recorded. MBBS students from first to final year were included, while those previously diagnosed with any psychiatric disorder or currently receiving psychiatric treatment were excluded. Coping strategies were assessed using the Brief COPE Inventory, which measures adaptive, emotional, and avoidant coping. Overall life satisfaction was evaluated using the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Data were analyzed using SPSS 23, and linear regression was performed to examine the relationship between coping strategies and life satisfaction, with p-values <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Among the 273 participants, 184 (67.2%) primarily used adaptive coping strategies, 59 (21.5%) used emotional coping, and 30 (10.9%) used avoidant coping. Adaptive coping was a significant positive predictor of SWLS scores (β=0.31, p=0.001), whereas emotional coping was a significant negative predictor (β=-0.53, p<0.001). Avoidant coping did not significantly predict SWLS (β=0.07, p=0.284). Conclusion: Majority students used adaptive coping strategies to manage stress, while emotional and avoidant strategies were less common. Interventions aimed at promoting effective coping strategies may help improve overall life satisfaction among medical students.