Perceived effects of undergraduate medical study on social life: a descriptive study at poonch Medical College in Rawlakot Azad Kashmir

ABSTRACT

This study explored how second year medical students of Poonch Medical College related studying in medical college with their social activities. Cross-sectional study. This study was conducted with the first batch of students at PMC in Rawlakot AJ and K from January 2013 to July 2014. This study obtained data in a purposive sample from the entire second year class using a structured self-administered questionnaire, with 88% response rate. Of total 88 respondents, 63 girls [72%] and 25 boys [28%] with a mean age of 19 participated. More than 80% respondents had many friends, 81% girls and 36% boys didn't have time to meet them [[p<.000]. Around 89% girls and 68% boys didn't have time to play [[p.029], 49% girls and 44% couldn't see their families [p<.197], 40% hostelite and non-hostelite could play [p<.991], and 76% boys and 65% girls perceived burdensome medical study which deprived them from regularly meeting with their family and friends. Findings of this study have broader implications for furnishing academic environment in medical institutions of Pakistan more conducive, supportive and effective. Medical instititionsshould review their curriculum and teachinglleaming schedules and try to redesign their educational programs keeping a balance between study load and the social life of a medical student. Students should also be encouraged to set their educational and social priorities and try to ensure this balance