ACMJ
Anatolian Current Medical Journal

Anatolian Current Medical Journal (ACMJ) is an unbiased, peer-reviewed, and open access international medical journal. The Journal publishes interesting clinical and experimental research conducted in all fields of medicine, interesting case reports, and clinical images, invited reviews, editorials, letters, comments, and related knowledge.

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Original Article
The relationship between maladaptive daydreaming and academic procrastination, depression, anxiety and stress levels in medical students
Abstract
Aims: Maladaptive daydreaming (MD) is a condition characterized by excessive and immersive daydreaming, often linked to psychological distress and behavioral difficulties. This research examines the correlation between MD, academic procrastination, and psychological distress among medical students.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with medical students who completed self-report questionnaires, including the MD scale (MDS-16), the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Tuckman Procrastination Scale (TPS). Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses were performed to assess associations between MD, academic procrastination, and psychological distress.
Results: The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between MD and academic procrastination (r=.181, p<.05). Additionally, MD was positively associated with depression (r=.245, p<.001), anxiety (r=.222, p<.001), and stress (r=.216, p<.001). However, MD did not show a significant direct association with academic performance (ß=-0.07, p=.28).
Conclusion: While MD is strongly linked to academic procrastination and psychological distress, its direct impact on academic performance remains unclear. Future research should further explore the mechanisms underlying these associations and consider intervention strategies for individuals experiencing MD-related difficulties.

Keywords : Maladaptive daydreaming, academic procrastination, psychological distress, depression, anxiety

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Article available in :
Volume 7, Issue 3, 2025
Page : 320-325
https://doi.org/10.38053/acmj.1659391
Article Information
Received : 17 Mar 2025
Accepted : 25 Nis 2025
Published : 30 May 2025
Corresponding Author :

Mustafa Karaağaç: Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkiye

[email protected]
Citation : Karaağaç M, Korkmaz ŞA. The relationship between maladaptive daydreaming and academic procrastination, depression, anxiety and stress levels in medical students. Anatolian Curr Med J. 2025;7(3):320-325.

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