Objective: To characterize Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) constitution using the CCMQ, personality traits using the EPI, and extracurricular activity needs using the QEAN questionnaire; and to analyze the associations among these factors in students at the Faculty of Traditional Medicine.
Subjects and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 412 students at the Faculty of Traditional Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City. Data were collected using three standardized instruments: the CCMQ (60 items), EPI (57 items), and QEAN survey. Statistical analysis was performed using R software with multivariable logistic regression.
Results: The Balanced (Binh hoa) constitution was most prevalent (31.6%), while unbalanced types — particularly Phlegm-dampness, Qi deficiency, and Damp-heat — collectively accounted for 68.4% of participants, with a tendency toward multiple concurrent constitution types. In terms of personality, the majority of students fell into the Melancholic temperament group, characterized by introversion and emotional sensitivity (EPI-E < 12, EPI-N > 12). The overall extracurricular participation rate was 94.4%; 85.2% had concrete participation plans and 84.9% rated extracurricular activities as important or very important. Multivariable logistic regression identified two statistically significant predictors: (1) Extraversion (EPI-E) — each unit increase in EPI-E was associated with reduced odds of behavioral barriers to participation (OR = 0.922; 95%CI: 0.854 – 0.992; p = 0.033); (2) Academic year — first-year students showed significantly lower participation needs compared to fifth-year students (OR = 0.141; 95%CI: 0.031 – 0.461; p = 0.003).
Conclusion: TCM constitution and personality traits are significantly associated with extracurricular participation needs and behaviors among medical students. Extraversion serves as a protective factor reducing participation barriers, whereas unbalanced constitution types and high neuroticism are associated with diminished engagement. These findings support the development of individualized extracurricular programs based on the "Individualized Treatment" (Nhan nhan che nghi) principle, with the aim of enhancing holistic education outcomes and mental well-being in TCM students.