Exploring the motivations for studying medicine in the montubia population: A study based on the MEM-12 scale

Abstract

Introduction: Understanding the motivations that drive students to choose a medical career is essential for guiding educational processes, strengthening professional training, and contributing to a more effective health system, particularly in culturally diverse contexts such as the Montubian population. Objective: To explore the motivations for studying medicine among Montubian applicants using the MEM-12 scale. Materials and Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with medical school applicants from the Technical University of Manabí during the 2023 P1, 2023 P2, and 2024 P1 periods; from an initial population of 240 participants, a sample of 76 self-identified Montubian applicants was selected. The MEM-12 scale was applied באמצעות an online form with informed consent, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test in SPSS v.27. Results and Discussion: A predominance of intrinsic motivations was observed, particularly the desire to help others, contribute to society, and achieve personal growth, with mean scores above 4.5 in most items; in contrast, extrinsic motivations such as social status and financial gain showed moderate values and greater variability. The Wilcoxon test revealed statistically significant differences between both dimensions (Z = -6.410; p < 0.001), confirming the higher level of intrinsic motivation. Conclusions: Montubian applicants to medical school demonstrate a motivational orientation focused on service, vocation, and social commitment, highlighting the need to strengthen educational strategies that support these characteristics and promote retention, well-being, and professional development in intercultural contexts.