Beyond the Prestige: Psychological Insights into Emotional Intelligence, Resilience, and Motivation Across Multiple UPSC CSE Attempts

Abstract

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is celebrated as a prestigious entry point into India’s top administrative roles, yet the reality for many aspirants is fraught with psychological challenges. This study delves into how multiple attempts at the UPSC CSE impact candidates’ emotional intelligence (EQ), hardiness, and motivation. By analysing data from 103 aspirants, it was found that EQ tends to decline with more than three attempts, whereas hardiness improves. Motivation, however, remains consistent across different attempt groups. These results highlight a stark contrast between the glorified perception of the UPSC CSE and the actual mental and emotional struggles of candidates. To bridge this gap, it’s essential to implement specialized support systems and resilience building for aspirants. Future research should aim at creating targeted interventions to alleviate the psychological toll of extended preparation and foster a more supportive environment for those navigating this demanding journey.