Examining the Relationship between Academic Competition and Academic Jealousy among Undergraduate Students: The Moderating Role of Gratitude

Abstract

Academic competition enhances performance and creativity among undergraduate students, yet it may also foster negative emotions such as jealousy, which can strain interpersonal relationships. Despite extensive research on competition and jealousy, their relationship in academic settings, particularly moderated by gratitude, was unexplored. This cross-sectional survey was conducted to examine the relationship between academic competition and academic jealousy and find out the moderating role of gratitude among undergraduate students. To fulfill these objectives 256 students (N=256) were surveyed at Riphah International University and the University of Malakand, Pakistan. This sample size was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula, and data were collected through convenient sampling technique by applying the Revised Competitiveness Index (CI-R), Academic Jealousy Scale (AJS), and Gratitude Questionnaire-Six Item Form (GQ-6). The collected data was analyzed using SPSS-27 version. The results revealed a strong positive correlation between academic competition and academic jealousy (r = .88, p < .01), while gratitude negatively correlated with both (r = -.72, p < .01). Gratitude significantly moderated the relationship between competition and jealousy (R² = .80, p < .001), indicating that higher gratitude levels weaken this link. No significant gender differences were found in competition or jealousy, but males reported higher gratitude (M = 28.22, SD = 9.46) than females (M = 24.59, SD = 8.97).The study findings highlight competition’s dual role as a motivator and jealousy initiation, with gratitude serving as a protective factor. In light of these results, this research suggests that educators, policymakers, and mental health professionals should prioritize gratitude to help students guide competitive academic environments, enhancing well-being and academic outcomes.