An investigation of self-concept in baccalaureate nursing students

Typescript (photocopy).Purpose. The purpose of this study was to compare entering, second semester, third semester, and existing baccalaureate nursing students from selected public and private schools on the basis of self-concept. Procedure. Two questionnaires were utilized to measure self-concept and to collect demographic information in four selected schools of baccalaureate nursing. The Tennessee Self Concept Scale (consisting of eight self-concept subscales) provided an overall measure of self-esteem, and a demographic questionnaire was used to collect data relative to age, sex, race, marital status, and previous health care experience. The sample consisted of 391 students enrolled during the fall 1983 semester at selected schools in the Houston area. The data were subjected to a three factor partial hierarchial factorial analysis of variance with the second factor nested in the first factor. The demographic data were analyzed using the Chi Square Test of multiple comparisons. Data were analyzed by class (Junior 1, Junior 2, Senior 1, Senior 2), by school status (public or private), and by school (School A, B, C, D).Results. Students did not differ in self-esteem when analyzed by class, status of school, or school. Eight subscale analyses revealed a significant finding only for family self by class, positive identity by class x school (status), and personal self by class. Conclusions. (1) Class groups of baccalaureate nursing students do not differ in self-esteem. (2) Class groups of baccalaureate nursing students do not differ in self-concept as measured by the eight subscales of the Tennessee Self Concept Scale. (3) Baccalaureate nursing students in public and private programs do not differ in self-esteem. (4) Baccalaureate nursing students in public and private programs do not differ with respect to the eight subscales of the Tennessee Self Concept Scale. (5) Baccalaureate nursing students' self-esteem is not affected by the school attended. (6) Baccalaureate nursing students' responses to the eight subscales of the Tennessee Self Concept Scale are not affected by the school attended