Nivel de estrés y ansiedad en estudiantes de posgrados de Odontología de la Universidad Santo Tomás Bucaramanga

Abstract

Background. Academic stress and anxiety are highly prevalent psychological problems in the academic environment, especially among postgraduate students in health sciences. Objective. To determine the levels of stress and anxiety in postgraduate dentistry students at the Universidad Santo Tomás, Bucaramanga. Methodology. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 119 students, analyzing sociodemographic variables (sex, age, academic program, and semester) along with the dependent variables of academic stress and general anxiety. The specific dimensions of stress (stressors, physical, psychological, and behavioral reactions) and the components of anxiety (state and trait) were measured using the Academic Stress Inventory (IEA) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). The research adhered to the ethical principles established in Resolution 008430 of 1993, being classified as a greater than minimal risk investigation. Informed consent was obtained from all participants, ensuring their absolute voluntariness and confidentiality. Results. 89.98% of the participants experience some degree of academic stress, with the academic stressors dimension showing the highest score. Regarding anxiety, 68.7% reported moderate levels, while 67.23% were in a severe level of trait anxiety, suggesting a personal predisposition to anxiety. Although general stress did not show significant differences by program or semester, a statistically significant difference was found in state anxiety (p<0.001) and trait anxiety (p=0.032) in relation to the academic program. The Orthodontics and Oral Rehabilitation programs concentrated the most severe cases, while anxiety and stress levels intensified in the intermediate semesters (third and fifth). Conclusion. The specific demands of each specialty and the stage of training are influential factors in the emotional well-being of the students.