The Relation Between Emphatic Tendency and Level of Compassion among Midwifery Students

Abstract

Objective: In this study, it has been aimed to determine the relation between the empathic tendency and compassion level in the students of midwifery department. Methods: The study is a descriptive and analytical study. The data were collected by self-reporting method using “Empathic Tendency Scale” and “Compassion Scale”. The study was conducted with a total of 335 midwifery students studying at university in Turkey. Results: The students’ empathic tendency score was found to be 67.38 ±5.86. The students’ compassion score was found to be 94.63±11.58. The empathic tendency level of the students studying in the first grade is significantly higher than other grades. There is a positive correlation between the empathic tendency level and the sub-dimensions of the total compassion score, kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. Conclusion: It has been determined because of the study that the empathic tendency and compassion levels of the students of midwifery are high. Classes about empathy and compassion should be included in the midwifery curriculum for the students to graduate with this point of view.