Senior Baccalaureate Nursing Students’ Experiences of Self-Compassion: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Abstract

Background: Self-compassion has been discussed in recent years as a concept that can facilitating compassionate care. However, little is known about the meaning of self-compassion and its place within nursing care for nursing students. Objectives: The aim of the study was to explore the self-compassion experiences, perceptions of the importance of self-compassion in patient care, and barriers to self-compassion of senior baccalaureate nursing students. Methods: This research constitutes a qualitative descriptive study. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results: Three themes emerged: (1) am I able to show compassion for myself as I show it for others?, (2) barriers to self-compassion, and (3) Improving self-compassion. Conclusion: It was concluded that self-compassion is important for providing compassionate care from the perspective of senior baccalaureate nursing students. The findings suggest the necessity of integrating the concept of self-compassion into undergraduate education by being aware of any barriers to self-compassion.