Competition and Psychospiritual Well-Being among Early-Career Priests: An Embedded Mixed-Methods Study

Abstract

Grounded on Self-Determination Theory and Psychospiritual Theory, this study examined the relationship between Competition and Psychospiritual Well-Being among early-career priests, using an embedded mixed-methods design. A census approach was employed targeting 91 early career priests, of whom 52 participated in the quantitative phase. Data were collected using the Hypercompetitive Attitude Scale and Psychospiritual Well-Being Scale. Qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews with eight early career priests to provide in depth experiences. Pearson Correlation analysis showed a weak, negative and non-significant correlation between competition and psychospiritual well-being (r = -0.140, p = 0.321). Despite the statistically non-significant association, the qualitative findings indicated that experiences of comparison and subtle competition existed but were mediated through spiritual practices, community life and adaptive coping mechanisms. These findings suggest that psychospiritual well-being among early career priests may be sustained by internalizing spiritual resources and formation structures that mitigate potential effects of competition. This study contributes to the growing body of research on priests’ well-being by illuminating the complex interplay between psychosocial dynamics and spiritual integration. Implications for priestly formation and on-going pastoral support are discussed. Given the modest quantitative sample and the non-significant statistical association, the findings should be read as exploratory rather than conclusive. The qualitative strand strengthens the interpretation by explaining how spiritual practices, vocation-centred identity and communal support may buffer the potentially harmful effects of competition.