Role of Narcissism, Mattering, and Social Support on Psychological Well-Being Of Medical Students

Abstract

Background: Medical students often experience a peak in intellectual and emotional stress, which can greatly affect their psychological well-being (PWB).

Objective: To determine the impact of narcissism, social support, and a sense of belonging on psychological well-being in medical students.

Methodology: In this cross-sectional study, we included a total of 368 medical students from different Medical Colleges in South Punjab, Pakistan, from September 2024 to February 2025. The research used the General Mattering Scale (GMS), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), the Ryff Scale of Psychological Well-being (PWB) scale, and the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI) scale. Multiple regression analysis, together with correlation studies, served as statistical methods for evaluating PWB predictors. SPSS-26 was used for data analysis.

Results: Descriptive analysis revealed mean scores for PWB (87.92, SD = 11.40), NPI (5.03, SD = 2.90), MSPSS (4.75, SD = 1.17), and GMS (12.71, SD = 2.92). Correlation analysis indicated significant positive relationships between PWB and MSPSS (r = 0.401, p < 0.001), as well as GMS (r = 0.351, p < 0.001). Regression analysis showed MSPSS (β = 0.319, p < 0.001) and GMS (β = 0.268, p < 0.001) as significant predictors of PWB, while NPI was not significant (β = -0.076, p = 0.104).

Conclusion: The study data demonstrate that medical students achieve superior psychological well-being when they receive social support and feelings of belonging. Research experts suggest selected techniques to enhance social relationships and promote social attachment among people.