Self-Compassion and Hope Among College Students Based on Gender

Abstract

The present study aims to examine self-compassion and hope among college students based on gender. Self-compassion is extending compassion to one’s self in instances of perceived inadequacy, failure, or general suffering. Hope is a positive cognitive state based on a sense of successful goal-directed determination and planning to meet these goals. Participants were given Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) and Adult Hope Scale (AHS). Participants (N = 100) of the age group 18 to 25 years were purposively selected from different parts of Kerala through online mode. The results obtained indicate that there is a significant relationship between self-compassion and hope among college students. There is a significant difference in the level of self-compassion and hope among college students based on gender. The findings of the study provide evidence that gender does not affect the level of self-compassion and hope among college students. Self-compassion and hope are to be cultivated among college students for greater determination towards the future. Individuals with higher self-compassion perceived greater competence, make a greater effort, and maintain higher persistence toward academic goals even when confronted with obstacles, which reflects the typical characteristics of hope.