An examination of the relationship between hopelessness and perceived job insecurity among students of the faculty of health sciences

Background and Aim: This study aims to examine the relationship between perceived job insecurity and levels of hopelessness among students of the Faculty of Health Sciences. The study provides a conceptual framework for understanding the psychosocial reflections of the academic and occupational uncertainties faced by students. In this context, the research focuses on reducing students' levels of hopelessness, strengthening their positive outlook toward the future, and supporting their professional motivation and self-efficacy perceptions. In addition, contributing to career planning processes and promoting the development of 21st-century skills within educational environments are among the objectives of the study. The findings are expected to offer practical implications for guidance and counseling services, academic advising systems, career centers, and educational policies. Material and Methods: The population of this study consists of students enrolled at Trakya University Faculty of Health Sciences in Edirne. The sample was selected from this population through convenience sampling and includes students who voluntarily agreed to participate. Data were collected through face-to-face questionnaires. The data collection tool consisted of three parts: demographic information, the Job Insecurity Scale, and the Beck Hopelessness Scale. The Beck Hopelessness Scale includes three sub-dimensions: feelings about the future, loss of motivation, and future expectations. Data obtained from 990 students were analyzed using SPSS 22.0. During the analysis process, descriptive statistics, reliability analysis (Cronbach's Alpha), normality tests, correlation analysis, non-parametric group comparison tests (Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis), post-hoc tests for significant group differences, and binary logistic regression analysis were conducted. Normality assessments indicated that the variables did not meet the assumption of normal distribution; therefore, non-parametric tests were used for group comparisons. As part of the validity and reliability assessment, internal consistency coefficients were calculated and factor analyses were carried out. Results: The findings indicate that the scales are valid and reliable, and CFA results support this structure. Since the variables were not normally distributed, non-parametric tests were used. No significant differences were found in job insecurity or overall hopelessness in terms of gender; however, male students scored higher in the motivation loss sub-dimension. Work experience did not significantly affect job insecurity, whereas students without work experience exhibited higher hopelessness, particularly regarding future expectations. Significant differences were found between departments in terms of job insecurity, with Health Management students reporting higher levels. Correlation analyses indicated positive associations between job insecurity and hopelessness, as well as its subdimensions. The logistic regression results further showed that a one-unit increase in job insecurity score increased the likelihood of students being categorized as hopeless by approximately 3.3 times, that gender had a partial effect with being male increasing this likelihood by 1.7 times, and that age and work experience played only a limited role. Conclusion: This study demonstrated a significant association between health sciences faculty students' perceptions of job insecurity and their levels of hopelessness, with this relationship partially varying according to certain sociodemographic characteristics. Overall, students reported a moderate level of perceived job insecurity; this perception did not differ by gender or work experience but varied according to academic department and year of study. In particular, students in the Department of Health Management exhibited higher levels of job insecurity, suggesting greater sensitivity to post-graduation employment uncertainty. Although overall hopelessness levels did not show significant differences across most variables, limited differences were observed to the disadvantage of male students and those without work experience in the dimensions of motivational loss and future expectations. The analyses further revealed that increases in job insecurity were associated with higher levels of hopelessness, and that job insecurity emerged as a strong predictor of hopelessness.