Date of Award

2-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

School of Education

First Advisor

Linda Samek, Ed.D.

Second Advisor

Scot Headley, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

W. Brad Johnson, Ph.D.

Abstract

This qualitative research study was conducted to better understand women leaders’ perceptions of compassion in higher education. Specifically, what are the types of distressing events and the settings wherein a compassionate response was offered; what are the compassionate actions experienced or offered, and what might enhance or inhibit the process of compassion. The study was also conducted to examine if and how compassion enhances or influences learning (Knowles, 2011), growing and healing (Rogers, 1967), and thriving at work (McGregor, 1960). Kanov et al.’s (2017) process theory of compassion was used as the theoretical framework to gain insight into compassion in higher education. Eleven women leaders gave first-hand accounts of distressing events both witnessed and experienced as well as the compassionate responses they offered and either did or did not receive. Transcripts of semi-structured interviews were inductively and deductively coded using both a narrative approach and phronetic iterative analysis. The data revealed that (1) there is an ARC of compassion that adapts to the type and magnitude of the distressing event; (2) the distressed person did not necessarily need significant tangible responses, but did benefit from an Echo Effect when they reached out for help and received a response; (3) empathy was present during compassionate responses, but courage, vulnerability, skill, and intentionality were foregrounded. Participants’ narratives reflected Kanov et al.’s process theory of compassion. Lastly, compassionate responding was found to be coherent with learning, growing and healing, and thriving at work. By also coding for the individual elements in Knowles’ adult learning theory, Roger’s person-centered theory, and McGregor’s Theory Y, a new conceptual framework emerged, with four shared core elements: human dignity, growth orientation, supportive environments, and individual agency.

Download

Share

COinS