Predicting Occupational Stress according to Academic Factors of Dental Students during COVID-19 Pandemic in Iran: The Mediating Role of Psychological Capital (Self-efficacy, Hope, Optimism, and Resilience)

Background: After the announcement of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a high level of concern about infection and psychological complications caused by the situation was reported in the field of dentistry.Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the role of psychological capital (self-efficacy, hope, optimism, and resilience) of dental students in predicting occupational stress related to their academic factors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and methods:The research population consisted of final-and pre-final-year general dentistry students studying at Iranian universities.The method of measuring the variables of the research is the use of an online questionnaire consisting of three parts to measure occupational stress related to dental education factors in the COVID-19 pandemic which was made available to the target group.Results: The results showed the significant role of optimism in the negative and significant prediction of "reduction of practical course requirements" and the positive and significant prediction of "strict health protocols".Conclusion: Considering the significant relationship of psychological capital, as a positive psychological component, and the reduction of occupational stress in dental students, it seems that dental educational centers and universities should pay more attention to providing psychological materials and training for these students.