DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Burnout and academic stress are significant challenges in medical education, affecting mental health, academic performance, and future professional competence. Comparative data between public and private sector medical students are limited, especially in Pakistan.
Objective: To assess and compare burnout, academic stress, and coping mechanisms among undergraduate medical students in public and private sector medical colleges in Lahore, Pakistan.
Methods: This comparative study was conducted from June 2023 to June 2024 at Lahore Medical and Dental College and other medical colleges in Lahore. A total of 100 undergraduate students (50 public, 50 private) were enrolled. Burnout was measured using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey, academic stress with the Medical Student Stressor Questionnaire, and coping strategies with the Brief COPE Inventory. Statistical comparisons were conducted using chi-square and independent-samples t-tests.
Results: High burnout was reported in 47% of students, significantly more in private sector students (56%) compared to public sector students (38%, p = 0.04). Emotional exhaustion was also higher among private students (mean 4.8 ± 1.1 vs. 4.2 ± 1.3, p = 0.02). Academic stress was moderate-to-high in 72% of students, with private sector students showing higher stress levels (mean 3.9 ± 0.9 vs. 3.5 ± 1.0, p = 0.03). Adaptive coping strategies were common, but maladaptive strategies were significantly more frequent in private sector students (24% vs. 12%, p = 0.04).
Conclusion: Burnout and academic stress are widespread among medical students, with private sector students more severely affected. Targeted interventions to reduce stress and promote healthier coping are urgently needed in both sectors.