Prevalence and Predictors of Socio-Psychological Stress among Nursing Students in Bayelsa State, Nigeria
  • Author(s): Ogala Ehimen (M.Sc.); Data Aluye-Benibo (PhD); Musa Muhammed (PhD)
  • Paper ID: 1716070
  • Page: 1049-1053
  • Published Date: 11-04-2026
  • Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
  • Publisher: IRE Journals
  • e-ISSN: 2456-8880
  • Volume/Issue: Volume 9 Issue 10 April-2026
Abstract

Nursing education is widely recognized as academically rigorous and emotionally demanding, exposing students to multiple socio-psychological stressors that may adversely affect their well-being and academic performance. This study examined the prevalence and predictors of socio-psychological stress among nursing students in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed among 400 undergraduate nursing students selected from tertiary institutions in the state. Data were collected using standardized instruments, including the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), alongside structured questionnaires assessing stressors and coping strategies. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Findings revealed a high prevalence of socio-psychological stress, with the majority of students experiencing moderate to severe stress levels. Key predictors identified include academic workload, financial constraints, clinical exposure, and institutional inadequacies. Students adopted both adaptive coping strategies (e.g., social support, time management, and religious practices) and maladaptive strategies (e.g., avoidance and isolation). The study concludes that socio-psychological stress is pervasive among nursing students and is influenced by multiple interrelated factors. Targeted institutional interventions are essential to improve mental health outcomes and academic performance.

Keywords

Nursing Students, Stress, Coping Mechanisms, Mental Health, Bayelsa State

Citations

IRE Journals:
Ogala Ehimen (M.Sc.), Data Aluye-Benibo (PhD), Musa Muhammed (PhD) "Prevalence and Predictors of Socio-Psychological Stress among Nursing Students in Bayelsa State, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 10 2026 Page 1049-1053 https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I10-1716070

IEEE:
Ogala Ehimen (M.Sc.), Data Aluye-Benibo (PhD), Musa Muhammed (PhD) "Prevalence and Predictors of Socio-Psychological Stress among Nursing Students in Bayelsa State, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(10) https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I10-1716070