Predicting research self-efficacy through spiritual intelligence and academic stress in medical students

Background: Research competence and self-efficacy are crucial skills for medical students, as they significantly enhance their involvement in research activities. The current study aimed to investigate the relationship between spiritual intelligence and academic stress with research selfefficacy in medical students in Ilam. Methods: The statistical population of this descriptive-correlational study included all medical students of higher education in Ilam (Iran) in 2022. The convenience sampling method was employed to select 301 students as the research sample, and the Pearson correlation coefficient was used with stepwise regression for data analysis. The research instruments included the Research Self-Efficacy Scale, Spiritual Intelligence Questionnaire, and Academic Stress Inventory (ASI). Results: The results indicated a significant positive correlation between spiritual intelligence and research self-efficacy, whereas there was a negative significant relationship between academic stress and research self-efficacy (P<0.001). Moreover, spiritual intelligence and academic stress explained 18% of the variance in research self-efficacy of students; however, spiritual intelligence contributed more to research self-efficacy. Conclusion: Given the research results and the pivotal role of students in the future development of every country, it is possible to perceive and believe in their competence in light of a powerful factor such as spirituality.