PROBLEM STATEMENT
Medical students often face intense academic demands, clinical pressures, and emotional challenges,
which can lead to burnout. While burnout is a recognized concern across medical education, there is
limited understanding of how burnout incidence varies between different stages of medical training.
Specifically, it is unclear whether year 3 medical students, who are transitioning from pre-clinical to
clinical training, experience different levels of burnout compared to year 5 medical students, who are
nearing the end of their undergraduate medical education and preparing for professional practice. This
study aims to investigate and compare the incidence of burnout among year 3 and year 5 medical
students, exploring potential differences in burnout levels, contributing factors, and implications for
student well-being and professional development.
Research Questions:
1. What is the incidence of burnout among year 3 and year 5 medical students?
2. Are there significant differences in burnout levels between year 3 and year 5 medical students?
3. What factors (e.g., academic demands, clinical responsibilities, personal characteristics) contribute to
burnout in these student groups?
This study seeks to contribute to the understanding of burnout in medical education and inform
strategies to support student well-being and resilience during different stages of medical training.
End of problem statement.
EXTRA-s
The main aim of this study is to:
Investigate and compare the incidence of burnout among year 3 and year 5 medical students, exploring
potential differences in burnout levels and contributing factors.
This aim is focused on understanding burnout in medical students at different stages of their education,
with the ultimate goal of informing strategies to support student well-being and resilience.
Why This Study Matters to Medical Students:
1. Understanding Burnout: Medical students often face high levels of stress and pressure. This study
helps identify how burnout affects students at different stages of their education.
2. Targeted Support: By exploring differences in burnout levels and contributing factors, this research
can inform tailored support strategies to meet the unique needs of students in different years.
3. Promoting Well-being: The findings can contribute to creating a healthier learning environment,
enhancing student well-being, and fostering resilience.
4. Future Practice: Understanding burnout in medical students can also have implications for future
professional practice, helping to ensure that doctors are better equipped to manage stress and maintain
their well-being throughout their careers.
This study has the potential to make a positive impact on medical students' lives, both during their
education and beyond.
DEFINITION.
Burnout in students refers to physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress,
overwork, and lack of balance in life. It can lead to decreased motivation, reduced performance, and
overall well-being.
Common signs include:
1. Chronic fatigue
2. Lack of motivation
3. Increased irritability
4. Decreased productivity
5. Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach issues
