Investigating the Relationship Between Self-efficacy and Suicidal Ideation with the Mediation of Job Stress in Medical Residents at Guilan University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Introduction: Due to occupational and educational pressures, medical residents are vulnerable to occupational stress and suicidal ideation. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between self-efficacy and suicidal ideation mediated by occupational stress among medical residents of Guilan University of Medical Sciences.

Method: In this descriptive-correlational study, 131 medical residents from Guilan University of Medical Sciences (academic year 2024–2025) were selected using a proportionate stratified random sampling method. The instruments included the Sherer General Self-Efficacy Scale, the Osipow Occupational Stress Questionnaire, and the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSSI). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and mediation regression analysis in SPSS version 26.

Results: Among the 131 residents, the majority were female (59.5%), married (50.4%), and aged 31–35 years (45.8%). Cardiology had the highest frequency (19.1%), while Orthopedics and Neurosurgery had the lowest (5.3% each). The overall mean and standard deviation scores for self-efficacy, occupational stress, and suicidal ideation were 47.38±6.94, 196.42±31.81, and 2.91±5.56, respectively. Furthermore, Pearson’s correlation test revealed a weak but statistically significant negative correlation between self-efficacy and suicidal ideation (r=−0.19, p<0.01), and a weak but statistically significant positive correlation between occupational stress and suicidal ideation (r=0.19, p<0.01). In addition, self-efficacy demonstrated a weak and statistically significant negative correlation with occupational stress (r=−0.27, p<0.01).

Conclusion: Given the significant yet weak correlations observed among the variables, enhancing self-efficacy and mitigating occupational stress, alongside other contributing factors, may effectively contribute to reducing suicidal ideation among medical residents.