Ragging Is a Fun or A Curse: A Survey of Students’ Perceptions On Its Effect On Psychological Health

Background: Previous research has demonstrated that abuse, bullying, and harassment in educational institutions are common occurrences; they affect healthcare professionals other than medical students. Ragging of incoming students by more experienced students is a frequent practice at Pakistani universities. Physical, behavioral, emotional, and social issues in victims of ragging are all related. Among the justifications offered by students for ragging are: being ragged by their seniors; superiority complex; and an introductory tactic. Objective: The current study assesses incoming students' perceptions of ragging, including any potential detrimental consequences on their psychological well-being, actions, and attitudes, as well as any anticipated positive effects when done in moderation. Methodology: A cross-sectional study of a minimum of 100 students of both genders aged between 15 to 30 years was conducted from June 1 to September 1, 2022 at the Faculty of Eastern Medicine Hamdard University, Karachi. A pre-designed questionnaire which assessed perceptions regarding ragging amongst medical students was the tool of data collection Results: The majority of respondents 72.3%, concur that ragging negatively affects their psychological well-being and according to the findings 37.2% students responded in favor of ragging whether done moderately or in a positive way while 27.8% showed neutral and 35% students disagreed from it. Conclusion: It is concluded that ragging adversely impacts psychological health by triggering conditions like depression, tension, worry, or questions about one's own self-worth.