Investigation of the relationship between self-compassion, interpersonal problem-solving skills, and authenticity level of midwifery students

Abstract

Objective: This study examined the relationship between midwifery students’ self-compassion and interpersonal problem-solving skills and their level of authenticity. Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted between February and September 2023. The study population consisted of 531 midwifery students. The data consisted of a descriptive characteristics form, an authenticity scale, a self-compassion scale, and an interpersonal problem-solving inventory. Univariate analyses used a t-test, ANOVA (post hoc: Tukey HSD), and linear regression. Results: The mean score on the Authenticity Scale was 46.90 ± 11.35. As the mean score of the Self-compassion Scale and the mean score of the Interpersonal Problem-Solving Inventory decreased, the Authenticity Scale score also decreased. Conclusion: The authenticity level of the participants was moderate, and the level of authenticity increased as their interpersonal problem-solving skills and self-compassion increased. It is recommended that students’ physical activity levels be increased, participation in clubs/communities should be encouraged, and studies on problem-solving skills should be provided in their education.