A Study on Self-Actualization Level of Junior College Nursing Students

Hah, Yang Sook

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the self-actualization level of Junior College Nursing Students and to analyze the variables that may be related to self-actualization. A convenient sample of 346 students were selected from three colleges located in Seoul and Kyungki-Province. The data were collected using a direct survey method from September 17 to October 2, 1992. The instrument used for this study was the self-actualization test modified by Kim and Lee(1983). The collected data were analyzed using percentages, means, t-test, X2-test, ANOVA and Pearson's correlation coefficient, with the SPSS PC+ Package. The results of this study are as follows: 1) The self-actualization level of subjects was moderate. The subjects showed higher scores in the areas of Self actualizing Values and Nature of Man than the standardized normal groups. The subjects showed lower scores in the areas of Inner Directed Existentiality, Self acceptance and Capacity for Intimate Contact. 2) The subjects attending day junior colleges showed higher scores in the areas of Time competent, Existentiality and Self Acceptance than those attending college in the evening. The subjects attending evening junior colleges showed higher scores in the areas of Spontaneity than those attending college by day. 3) The junior students showed higher scores in the areas of Feeling Reactivity than freshman. The students with no religion showed higher scores in the areas of existentiality than those who had a religion. The group who had the experience of failure on the college entrance examination showed lower scores in the areas of Nature of Man than those without this experience. Those who chose their major voluntary showed scores higher in the areas of Inner Directed, Self Actualizing Values, Spontaneity and Self re gard than the unsatisfied group. The group satisfied with college life showed higher scores in the areas of Time Competent, Inner Directed, Self Actualizing Values and Self Regard than the unsatisfied group. In conclusion self actualization level depends on motivation of choice, satisfaction with nursing as a major and satisfaction with college life. Therefore, and effective guidance program is required to improve motivation and satisfaction with nursing as a major and with college life.