Prevalence And Associated Factors of Happiness Among Female Rural Medical Students of Haryana, India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: This study was undertaken to estimate the prevalence of happiness and to explore the factors associated with the level of happiness among female medical students of a rural medical college located in Haryana, India.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate medical students at a rural medical college Bhagat Phool Singh Government Medical College for Women, Khanpur Kalan, Sonepat, Haryana. Data were collected via a pre-designed, pre-tested, semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire incorporating the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire. Appropriate descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed.

Results: Out of 339 participants, 48% of the students reported to be happy and the mean happiness score was 114.40 ± 22.21. Binary logistic regression found peer support to be significant factor (AOR = 2.06; CI: 1.01–4.20; p = 0.047).

Conclusion: Every second medical student was found to be unhappy, highlighting the need to strengthen peer support systems to improve student happiness. Medical colleges should promote mentorship programs, peer support groups, collaborative learning, and student-led activities to foster a supportive environment and enhance well-being among medical students.