[Epidemiological study of university students].
OBJECTIVE
to study prevalence rates of psychological distress among university students.


METHODS
descriptive correlational research. Data gathered administering the brief version ( Argentine adaptation) of the Psychiatric Epidemiological Research Interview (PERI) to a sample of 1130 individuals studying at the University of Buenos Aires are presented. (Age Mean: 23 years old).


RESULTS
30 % of female students and 15 % of male ones can be considered at psychopathological RISK. Psychological symptoms of distress more frequently found are: anxiety, anger, irritability, violent attitudes or feelings. It can be said that 33% of female students and 19% of male ones express their wish to have a psychological interview with some professional of the University Health Center. Prevalence rates of distress are higher among participants who study Agronony, Philosophy and Literature and Medicine.


CONCLUSIONS
data analyzed show the need to incorporate a psychophysical assessment of students matriculated in the University. Currently they pass only through a medical one. The University Health Center can provide preventive programmes as well as assistance and interventions related to rehabilitations.
Casullo
María Cristina
MC
Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Quesada
Silvia
S
D000328:Adult; D001118:Argentina; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000453:epidemiology*; D014495:Universities