This study used a descriptive correlational design to examine the relationships between self-esteem, goal-oriented competitiveness, interpersonal competitiveness, and selected demographic variables in a sample of 115 female nurse practitioner students. The following research questions were studied: (1) What is the relationship between self-esteem and goal-oriented competitiveness in female nurse practitioner students? (2) What is the relationship between self-esteem and interpersonal competitiveness in female nurse practitioner students? (3) What are the effects of selected demographic variables on perceived levels of self-esteem in female nurse practitioner students? (4) What are the effects of selected demographic variables on goal-oriented competitiveness in female nurse practitioner students? (5) What are the effects of selected demographic variables on interpersonal competitiveness in female nurse practitioner students?.

Two instruments were used in the study, the Tennessee Self Concept Scale, to measure self-esteem; and the Work and Play Questionnaire, to measure both goal-oriented and interpersonal competitiveness. Demographic data were collected. Completion time ranged from 20 to 40 minutes. Correlations were obtained between the variables.

The study found that there was a statistically significant positive correlation between self-esteem and goal-oriented competitiveness. There was essentially no correlation between self-esteem and interpersonal competitiveness. The effects of demographic data on the variables were slight, and except for birth order, which affects interpersonal competitiveness, the correlations were not statistically significant.

In answering three open-ended questions on the demographic questionnaire, students indicated that they wanted to advance, to become more educated, and to have more autonomy in their practice. Many cited instances where they believed that they could diagnose and treat patients as well as physicians, but they worried that their clinical preparation and diagnostic abilities might not be adequate to assume advanced practice roles.

Nursing's goal is optimal patient care, and nurse practitioners work with other professionals to achieve that goal. The study suggests that measures to increase self-esteem may help nurse practitioner students compete in the healthcare arena to meet their goals.