An Investigation into the Relationship Between Self Compassion and Life Satisfaction Among Intensive Care Nurses

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between self-compassion and life satisfaction among intensive care nurses and to evaluate the effects of sociodemographic and professional factors on these variables.A descriptive and cross-sectional design was adopted.The study was conducted with a sample of 108 intensive care nurses working in nine Intensive Care Units (ICUs) at a Training and Research Hospital.Data were collected using the Self-Compassion Scale, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, and a Sociodemographic Questionnaire.Participants reported moderate levels of both self-compassion (mean = 2.68 ± 0.37) and life satisfaction (mean = 13.23 ± 4.06).A significant positive correlation was found between total self-compassion and life satisfaction (r = 0.261, p = 0.006).Among the subdimensions, self-kindness and mindfulness showed the strongest positive associations with life satisfaction, whereas self-judgment, isolation, and over-identification were negatively correlated.Significant differences in selfcompassion scores were observed based on educational level and working pattern (p < 0.05).Self-compassion appears to be an important psychological resource that positively contributes to life satisfaction among intensive care nurses.Enhancing self-compassion through individual or institutional interventions may improve nurses' psychological well-being and overall quality of life.