Self‐compassion influences the caring behaviour and compassion competence among saudi nursing students: A multi‐university study

AIM: This research investigated the perceptions of Saudi nursing students regarding self‐compassion and examined its influence on their caring behaviour and compassion competence. DESIGN: This is a quantitative and cross‐sectional study. METHODS: This multiuniversity study surveyed a convenience sample of 961 nursing using the Self‐compassion Scale, Compassion Competence Scale and Caring Behavior Inventory‐16 version. Standard multiple analysis was performed separately for caring behaviour and compassion competence as dependent variables. For both models, the self‐compassion dimensions and the demographic variables were considered predictor variables. RESULTS: The students reported their self‐compassion moderately, with mindfulness receiving the highest mean and self‐judgment receiving the lowest mean. Significant differences were observed on self‐compassion of students between universities. Caring behaviour and compassion competence were also rated moderately by the students. “Self‐kindness” and “common humanity” were identified as significant predictors of caring behaviour, whereas “self‐kindness,” “self‐judgment,” “common humanity” and “mindfulness” were significant predictors of compassion competence.