Qualitative Analysis of Psychological Factors in Harms of Choosing Major Process: Examining the Perspective of Paramedical Students

Abstract

Aim and Background: Paramedical majors are an attractive and highly demanded field of study among students. But recently, one can see students and graduates of these fields changing majors, failing academics, and re-participating in the national exam. This research was conducted to investigate and identify the psychological factors of harm in the process of choosing a major for paramedical students. Methods and Materials: This study was conducted with a qualitative approach, using the grounded theory method and Strauss and Corbin approach. The statistical population included all the students in paramedical majors of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences who studied in the academic year 2021-2022, 18 male and female students, were selected using purposeful sampling and semi-structured interviews. Findings: The information were recorded, coded, and categorized in the form of secondary codes, categories, and classes. The analysis of students' opinions led to the identification of 112 secondary codes, 14 sub-categories, and 4 main categories including inefficient cognitive skills, disturbed orientation, unsatisfied emotions and, ineffective behaviors and actions. Conclusion: The findings of the research indicate that psychological factors play a significant role in creating and continuing the harms of the process of choosing an academic major, and individual and psychological problems can face challenges in the correct path of choosing a major. The results of this study can be effective in identifying and reducing the harms caused by personal and psychological factors in the path of choosing an academic major.

Keywords

• harm of choosing major
• psychological factors
• paramedical students
• grounded theory