The mechanisms of student grit at the height of a major crisis: Identifying key predictors when times get really tough

Abstract

AimThe study aims to provide insights into the key predictors of grit both before, during and throughout a common crisis event, where other more individualised challenges may not provide these insights.DesignA repeated cross‐sectional design.MethodsData were collected via an anonymous questionnaire among n = 818 (20.8% response rate) nursing students who were undertaking a three‐year baccalaureate degree. Data collection occurred in the mid‐year break of 2019, 2020 and 2021. The online questionnaire, which examined student demographics, personality, locus of control‐4, general self‐efficacy, psychological capital and grit, took 15–25 min to complete. Data were prepared and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences to undertake Structural Equation Modelling. Reporting methods adhered to the STROBE guidelines.ResultsThe pathway models of grit prior to, at the time of, and after the global pandemic varied slightly as to their predictor variables, however, neuroticism was consistently present. Locus of control and psychological capital also varied over this period with hope having a positive impact, prior to and after the initial crisis, however, negatively impacted grit afterwards. Understanding the key drivers of grit, particularly those essential at or around the time of a crisis guides our understanding of how to better support nursing or healthcare students. These insights enable a greater focus of energies towards malleable attributes that can increase grit levels and better fortify nursing students for challenges they may encounter in practice. These insights also serve to further prepare healthcare, emergency, or other professionals who may encounter regular crises. Within months of a global pandemic occurring, the key predictors of grit were shown to fundamentally alter. Each pathway model varied slightly suggesting the timing of a crisis impacts students' capacity to manage new or novel situations, with hope as a key driver of grit throughout a crisis.