Self-Control as a Predictor of Self-Compassion Among OR Nurses in Selected Hospitals in Mindoro

This study examined self-control as a predictor of self-compassion among operating room (OR) nurses in selected hospitals in Mindoro. Specifically, it assessed nurses’ levels of self-control and self-compassion, determined the relationship between these variables, and evaluated the predictive contribution of self-control to self-compassion. A quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive-correlational, and predictive research design was employed. The study targeted 100 OR nurses selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered using the Brief Self-Control Scale and the Self-Compassion Scale–Short Form and analyzed through means, standard deviations, Pearson product-moment correlation, and simple linear regression at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that respondents demonstrated high self-control (M = 3.54, SD = 0.293) and moderate self-compassion (M = 3.31, SD = 0.356). Self-control was significantly and positively associated with self-compassion (r = .608, p < .001). Regression analysis further indicated that self-control significantly predicted self-compassion, accounting for 36.9% of its variance (R² = .369, p < .001). These findings suggest that nurses with greater self-control tend to report higher self-compassion, although the cross-sectional design does not establish causality. The study concluded that OR nurses possess strong self-regulatory abilities but may benefit from additional support in cultivating self-compassion. It recommends incorporating self-control, emotional balance, and self-compassion activities into hospital wellness initiatives, professional development, and continuing education. The proposed SELF-COMPASS OR Enhancement Framework should be piloted and evaluated. Future studies should involve larger, more diverse samples and adopt longitudinal or experimental designs to further examine these relationships. Such efforts may strengthen supportive workplace environments and nurses’ psychological well-being.