Finding Light in the Darkness: The Impact of Self-Compassion on Doctoral Students' Emotional Well-being

Abstract

A significant attrition rate among doctoral students has increased attention in the past two decades. Different researchers have identified factors contributing to doctoral programs' attrition rate. Although exploring these external factors contributes to the retention of doctoral students, only a few studies have explored the internal factors that contribute to the retention of doctoral students. This study aimed to explore the internal factor, self-compassion, in reducing distress, anxiety and depression that causes higher attrition rates among doctoral students. The study was descriptive, while correlational research was used to establish the relationship between self-compassion and emotional well-being. For this study, a sample of 80 doctoral students, through multistage sampling, from 3 selected universities were selected for the study. Two questionnaires, i.e. Self-Compassion Scale and DASS-21, were used to collect data. The finding revealed a higher association between self-compassion and emotional well-being. It was observed that a greater level of self-compassion resulted in a lower level of emotional well-being. It indicated a significant negative relationship between self-compassion and the emotional well-being of doctoral students. Interventions for improving the level of self-compassion may enhance overall well-being. This will ultimately be supportive in reducing depression, anxiety and stress among doctoral students, which will result in better retention among doctoral students in Punjab.