Keywords
Peer caring behavior
Empathy
Correlation
Submitted : 2026-02-08
Accepted : 2026-02-23
Published : 2026-03-10
Abstract
Objective: To understand the current status of peer caring behavior and empathy among undergraduate nursing students and to explore the relationship between the two. Method: Using the convenience sampling method, a questionnaire survey was conducted among 292 nursing students from a medical college in Jiangxi Province, using the Peer Caring Behavior Scale and the Jefferson Scale of Empathy. Results: The score for peer caring behavior among undergraduate nursing students was 85.00 (78.00–92.00), and the score for empathy was 101.00 (92.00–110.00). A positive correlation was found between the two (r = 0.362, p < 0.05). Conclusion: The level of peer caring behavior among undergraduate nursing students is above average, while their empathy level is moderate, with a positive correlation between the two. This suggests that nursing educators should strengthen the development of peer caring behavior, which may help enhance the empathy of undergraduate nursing students.
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