Investigating the State of Self-Expression and its Relationship with Adjustment and Self-Efficacy of Students: Evidence From a Cross-sectional Study in Southern Iran

Abstract

Introduction The ability to express themselves, adjustment, and self-efficacy play an important role in the academic success of students. The purpose of this research was to investigate the state of self-expression and its relationship with adjustment and self-efficacy of University students of Medical Sciences in 2024. Methods This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 290 students of various fields studying in the first semester of 2023-2024. Data were collected using standard self-expression, adjustment, and self-efficacy questionnaires. Data were analyzed with SPSS software version 23 using descriptive and inferential statistics, and t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were performed at a 5% significance level. Results The mean and standard deviation of self-expression, adjustment, and self-efficacy of the students were respectively 92.48 ± 17.36 out of 200, 123.87 ± 15.94 out of 335, and 48.31 ± 11.25 out of 85. This indicates the average level of self-expression and self-efficacy, as well as poor adjustment. Also, a statistically significant direct correlation was observed between self-expression with adjustment (p=0.002, r=0.328) and self-efficacy (p<0.001, r=0.516). Conclusion Self-expression and self-efficacy were estimated at a medium level, and adjustment was estimated at a low level. Based on the results, with the improvement of self-expression, the students' adjustment and self-efficacy will improve. Therefore, it is suggested that the officials of the university provide the conditions for improving the self-expression of students through educational workshops and increase their self-confidence and self-esteem. Subsequently, paying attention to the needs of students and trying to solve their problems will help to reduce incompatibility.