Towards a Deeper Understanding of Self-diagnosis Among Female Saudi Psychology Students
Background: Numerous studies have addressed medical student syndrome among
medical students, but only limited research has investigated this phenomenon among
psychology students.
Objective: This current qualitative study aimed to investigate the phenomenon of
self-diagnosis among female psychology students by exploring the underlying factors
contributing to it and raising awareness of the potential harm that self-diagnosis may
cause to female psychology students
Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven Saudi female
psychology students.
Results: Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) revealed that both internal
and external factors cause the student to self-diagnose. The findings also confirmed
the presence of negative and positive effects of self-diagnosis and the protective role
that the academic level plays.
Conclusion: The phenomenon of psychology student syndrome is evident among
students who self-diagnose.
