Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the problem-solving ability and its related factors in medical students of Kerman University of Medical Sciences in 2023.
Methods: This Cross-sectional study was conducted on 409 medical students of Kerman University of Medical Sciences, using a quota sampling method. A demographic questionnaire and the valid and reliable Heppner and Peterson problem-solving tool ( including self-confidence, avoidance-approach style, and personal control components) were used.
Results: Most students (61.9%) had poor problem-solving skills. Age was correlated with personal control (p <0.001) and avoidance-approach (p < 0.001). Married students had better scores than single students (p = 0.047). Family social status was related to self-confidence (p = 0.009) and total score (p = 0.005). Students' educational level differed in self-confidence (p < 0.001), avoidance-approach (p < 0.001), and personal control (p < 0.001). Students' residential status was related to self-confidence (p = 0.001), avoidance-approach (p = 0.024), and total score (p < 0.001). Students' tuition status was related to self-confidence (p = 0.001) and total score (p = 0.012).
Conclusion: The Problem-solving ability in medical students at Kerman University of Medical Sciences is at a weak and good level, respectively. It is necessary to design and implement problem-solving skill education in different target groups, considering the identified influencing factors, to have better effectiveness.