Progressive Muscle Relaxation in Nursing Students: Effects on Psychological and Biopsychosocial Outcomes

Last updated: March 10, 2026
Sponsor: Ondokuz Mayıs University
Overall Status: Completed

Phase

N/A

Condition

Mood Disorders

Anxiety Disorders

Depression

Treatment

Progressive relaxation exercise

Clinical Study ID

NCT07038109
HEM-PGE-RCT-2024-TUBITAK2209-A
1919B012327345
  • All Genders
  • Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Study Summary

This randomised controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of progressive muscle relaxation exercises (PMRE) on depression, anxiety, stress, future-oriented attitudes, and biopsychosocial responses in nursing students. The study was conducted between June 2024 and June 2025 with students enrolled in the Nursing Department. Data collection took place between January and March 2025. When selecting participants, a list of participants meeting the inclusion criteria was created using snowball sampling. A total of 104 students were randomly divided into experimental and control groups of 52 students each. Data were collected using the DASS-21, Future Orientation Scale, and Biopsychosocial Response Scale for Nursing Students.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Being registered in the Department of Nursing

  • Voluntary consent to participate in the study

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Having joint or muscle pain, or any condition that may interfere with performingrelaxation exercises

  • Having a diagnosis of cancer or any chronic disease

  • Having a psychiatric disorder that may interfere with obtaining valid results fromthe study (e.g., major depressive disorder, severe anxiety disorders, seriouspsychiatric conditions)

  • Currently receiving antidepressant, anxiolytic, or similar psychiatric treatment

  • Regular use of non-pharmacological methods such as yoga, psychotherapy, or similarpractices

Study Design

Total Participants: 104
Treatment Group(s): 1
Primary Treatment: Progressive relaxation exercise
Phase:
Study Start date:
January 01, 2025
Estimated Completion Date:
March 01, 2025

Study Description

Nursing students often face academic stress, emotional demands and clinical responsibilities, which can lead to psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, stress and concerns about their future. These issues can affect both their well-being and professional competence. Progressive muscle relaxation exercises (PMRE) are recognised as a useful method for reducing muscle tension, managing stress, and improving emotional regulation.

This randomised controlled trial was conducted between June 2024 and June 2025 with students studying Nursing. The data collection phase was carried out between January and March 2025. Participants meeting the inclusion criteria were identified using snowball sampling, and a list was created. A total of 104 nursing students on this list were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (receiving PMRE) or a control group, with 52 participants in each group. A pre-test-post-test design was used. Measurement tools included the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), the Future Orientation Scale, and the Biopsychosocial Response Scale for Nursing Students.

This study was supported by the Turkish Scientific and Technological Research Council (TÜBİTAK) under the 2209-A University Student Research Projects Support Programme.

Connect with a study center

  • Ondokuz Mayıs University

    Samsun,
    Turkey

    Site Not Available

  • Ondokuz Mayıs University

    Samsun,
    Turkey (Türkiye)

    Site Not Available

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