EFFECT OF HATHA YOGA ON SELF-PERCEPTION AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING IN NURSING STUDENTS

Emerging adulthood is a developmental phase situated between adolescence and adulthood, characterized by an intensive process of identity formation, the pursuit of independence, the assumption of responsibilities, and decision-making regarding the future. During this period, individuals encounter significant changes across various domains, including their educational journey, career planning, social relationships, and economic independence. In addition to the developmental characteristics inherent to emerging adulthood, nursing students face professional stressors such as a heavy academic workload, clinical practicums, direct involvement in patient care, responsibilities concerning patient safety, and the fear of making errors. The literature indicates that nursing students experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and psychological distress compared to university students in other disciplines. Consequently, the psychological well-being and a robust sense of self/identity among nursing students are of critical importance-both for the students themselves and for the individuals under their care. Given the implications for human and public health, the significance of research, projects, and investments in this area is evident.

This study is designed to evaluate the impact of Hatha Yoga practice on the self-perception and psychological well-being of nursing students in the stage of emerging adulthood. The study will be conducted within the Department of Nursing at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University. The sample will consist of nursing students who meet the inclusion criteria and consent to participate in the study. Participants will be divided into two groups: an intervention group and a control group. The sample size was calculated using the G*Power 3.1.9 software; accounting for potential attrition, the study is planned to be conducted with a total of 60 participants, consisting of 30 individuals in the intervention group and 30 in the control group. Students in the intervention group will engage in Hatha yoga for eight weeks, following a structured program, while students in the control group will continue with their routine educational activities without receiving any intervention. Data will be collected at three distinct time points: before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and three months post-intervention. The instruments used for data collection will include a "Descriptive Information Form," the "Multidimensional Self-Perception Scale," and the "Psychological Well-Being Scale." The primary outcomes of the study are the students' self-perception and levels of psychological well-being. Data obtained from the study will be analyzed using the SPSS software package.