Psychological stress perceived with respect to general health among urban Indian women.

Autor: Chawla, Jasmine Kaur, Sushil, Priyanka, Kumar, Pragya
Předmět:
Zdroj: Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment; Jan2023, Vol. 33 Issue 1, p94-107, 14p, 7 Charts, 2 Graphs
Abstrakt: Women face many sexist constraints globally, increasing the likelihood of psychological stress and related disorders. The present study explores general health constraints among urban Indian women with respect to stress. A cross-sectional study adhering to "strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology" (STROBE) guidelines was conducted in urban colonies in Delhi. A wide array of women above 18 years of age was recruited, which included students, working professional as well as housewives. General health issues and health behaviors among women were assessed through a questionnaire and stress was evaluated through Cohen's perceived stress scale (PSS)-10. Overall 532 women were contacted, among which 306 women (mean age = 28.8 ± 7.52) years participated. There was significant difference in mean PSS-10 scores, mean±standard error = −3.3 ± 0.6 and −3.1 ± 0.6; p <.0001 for irregular periods and dysmenorrhea, respectively. Likewise, there was significant difference (Mean± SE = −8.9 ± 0.7; p <.0001) in stress scores among women with chronic respiratory, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal pain symptoms. Changes in eating behavior during stress; prolong sitting/standing; and lack of exercise were categorized as 'negative health behaviors.' One-way ANOVA showed significant differences in PSS-10 scores (Mean ±SE = −11.3 ± 0.7; p <.0001) among participants exhibiting all "negative health behaviors." General health issues, not necessarily diagnosed medical condition can be psychological stressors among urban Indian women. Poor health behaviors adapted by urban Indian women like prolong sitting/standing, changes in eating habits during stress, and lack of exercise are associated with increased perception of stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index