Difference in the levels of Empathy and Psychological Well-Being between Psychology and Non-Psychology Postgraduates

Abstract

This study explores the difference in the levels of empathy and psychological well-being between psychology and non-psychology students pursuing their postgraduation to assess the impact of academic specialization on the above-mentioned traits. The sample comprised psychology students from different universities in India (N=50) as well as students pursuing non-psychology fields enrolled in different universities/colleges in India (N=50). Empathy was measured using the Empathy Assessment Scale (Malakcioğlu, C., 2022) and Psychological Well-Being was measured using Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scale- Short Form (Ryff et al., 2007; adapted from Ryff, 1989). The findings rejected the hypotheses that psychology students will have higher levels of empathy and psychological well-being than non-psychology students. Regardless of the academic specializations, the levels of empathy as well as psychological well-being are the same and show no significant difference. These results cast doubt on widely held beliefs on how academic discipline affects psychological health and empathy. The study emphasizes how crucial it is to take into account contextual impacts, cultural variances, and individual differences to fully comprehend these phenomena. It also emphasizes the necessity of customized support networks and interventions considering the requirements of postgraduate students in all academic fields.