An Analysis of the Relationship between Grit and the Psychological Well-Being of Psychiatry Residents

Abstract

Background: Grit is a psychological factor that is defined as "perseverance and passion for the long term." A growing interest exists in this factor because it aids in overcoming difficult tasks related to the psychological well-being of psychiatry residents to prevent burnout; however, it is still under-recognized in the Korean clinical practices. This study therefore examined the relationship between grit and the psychological well-being of psychiatry residents. Methods: In all, 77 psychiatry residents completed the study survey, and all met our study's participation criteria. To assess these residents' grit, burnout, and psychological well-being, the Original Grit Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory, and Psychological Well-being Scale were employed. For the statistical comparison, t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation analysis were used. Results: A significant relationship prevailed between grit and psychological well-being. The grit scores had positive and negative correlations with psychological well-being (p<0.01) and burnout (p<0.01), respectively. Thus, psychiatry residents with higher grit scores were more likely to experience less burnout and have higher psychological well-being scores. Conclusion: A significant relationship existed between grit, psychological well-being, and burnout. Grit assessment thus aided in identifying psychiatry residents who were at a greater risk of quitting their training program due to poor psychological well-being or emotional exhaustion.