Assertiveness and Stress among Undergraduate Nursing Students at Menoufyia University

Abstract

Assertiveness has emerged as an effective moderator of stress for the nursing student population. Being assertive means that you express yourself effectively and stand up for your point of view, while also respecting the rights and beliefs of others. Stress is the emotional and physical response you experience when you perceive an imbalance between demands placed on you and your resources at a time when coping is important .The aim of this study was to assess assertiveness and stress levels among second year and fourth nursing students at Meofiya University. Design: descriptive comparative research design was used. Setting: Study was carried out at Nursing College, Meofiya University. Subjects of the study were (176) students from second year and (141) students from fourth year. Three tools for data collection were used: (1) questionnaire for socio demographic data. (2) Assertiveness behavior scale (Clarck and Shea 1979). (3) Student nurse stress index (SNSI) (Jones and Johnston, 1999).  The findings indicated that second year nursing students have higher mean scores of assertiveness than fourth year students. Highest percentage of both groups reported high level of stress.  There was a statistical significant positive correlation between assertiveness and stress levels. In conclusion the results of this study revealed that both assertiveness and stress levels were higher among both academic years' students. That indicated a positive correlation between assertiveness and stress levels.  Recommendations: Introduction of specific courses aiming to enhance the acquisition of assertiveness skills, including stress management and coping strategies in curricula. Role play and role model are important in facing stress and being assertiveness. Future research is needed to large number of students.

Key words: Assertiveness, stress and nursing students