Comparative Analysis of Stress Prevalence among Married and Unmarried Female Doctors: A Comparative cross-sectional study
Abstract
This cross-sectional study investigated and compared stress prevalence among married and unmarried female doctors at Ch. Brahm Prakash Ayurved Charak Sansthan, New Delhi, using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The study included 30 female doctors to assess the impact of marital status on stress levels. Results indicated no significant difference in stress levels between married and unmarried groups (p=0.977), suggesting that marital status does not significantly influence perceived stress in this population. Contrary to common assumptions about increased stress for married women balancing career and family, this study highlights the role of other factors such as job demands, social support, and individual coping mechanisms. Notably, a high proportion of doctors aged 26-30 were married, yet stress levels remained similar across marital statuses. Unmarried doctors may experience distinct stressors, including lack of emotional support and societal pressure. The study's findings suggest a complex interplay of factors influencing stress in female doctors, beyond just marital status. Further research is needed to explore the influence of work experience, department-specific demands, and work shifts on stress levels in this population
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