The relationship between stress and weight changes among nursing students

Abstract

This thesis examined the potential correlation between stress and changes in body weight among nursing students using small mixed-methods cross-sectional research pilot study. Two female and two male volunteer students were selected from the first four semesters of the nursing program. They were interviewed using a 10-question survey to assess their stress levels, both at the beginning and end of their respective semesters. Additionally, their weights were recorded at the same intervals to monitor any changes. The study aimed to compare the weight of students before and after completing their assigned semester to determine whether they gained or lost weight. The research anticipated an increase in weight as students progressed through the semester. Additionally, the study quantified the changes in weight between semesters, considering that the stress associated with nursing school was expected to increase with each successive semester. Consequently, it was anticipated that the amount of weight gained would also increase as students advanced through their studies.