A study to assess the relation between stress and coping among the nursing students

Stress has been considered as a major issue of concern in 21st century and this has been documented widely among the nursing students but the use of effective coping methods can facilitate them to return to a balanced state. Although the body of evidence is growing on stress over the world, there is very little in the literature to know the relationship between stress and coping among the nursing students of Assam. Researchers conducted this study by using quantitative approach and descriptive survey design among 120 students, selected by using proportionate stratified random sampling technique. Standard tools such as Perceived Stress Scale and Coping Response Inventory were used to collect the data. Data were analyzed by using Software SPSS 16.0 version. Study results showed that majority (70.00%) of the students had moderate stress, 64.5% of students had average coping. Results also showed that no significant associations of stress as well as coping were found with selected demographic variables. The results further revealed that there was positive correlation of stress with acceptance or resignation, emotional discharge and negative correlation with problem solving, cognitive avoidance and positive reappraisal. The study concluded that students need to learn effective stress management techniques and healthy coping strategies in order to reduce the stress as well as maintains overall wellbeing.