Abstract
BACKGROUND: Exploring the impact of professional identity on the academic performance of nursing students is crucial for understanding how to improve educational outcomes in this field. Professional identity not only shapes students' self-concept but also influences their motivation, commitment, and success in their studies. However, the mechanisms underlying this relationship are not fully elucidated. This study aims to examine the potential mediating roles of general self-efficacy and learning engagement in this relationship. METHODS: A total of 1097 Chinese nursing students participated in this study. They were assessed using the Professional Identity Questionnaire for Undergraduate Students, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale for Students, and the College Students Academic Achievement Scale. The data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, structural equation modeling, and deviation-corrected percentile bootstrap techniques. RESULTS: (1) Professional identity (PI) was positively correlated with academic achievement (AA)(r = 0.446, P < 0.01), and the direct path of professional identity on academic achievement was significant (β = 0.301, t = 19.816, P < 0.001). (2) Professional identity positively predicted general self-efficacy(GSE) (β = 0.183, t = 16.427, P < 0.001) and learning engagement(LE) (β = 0.640, t = 22.494, P < 0.001). GSE positively predicted LE(β = 0.645, t = 9.320, P < 0.001) and AA(β = 0.458, t = 12.376, P < 0.001). LE positively predicted AA (β = 0.169, t = 10.877, P < 0.001). (3) GSE and LE play a significant mediating role between PI and AA. The mediating effect includes three paths: PI→GSE→AA(the mediating effect value: 0.084) and PI→LE→AA (the mediating effect value: 0.108). PI→GSE→LE→AA (the mediating effect value: 0.020). CONCLUSION: Professional identity exerts both direct and indirect influences on the academic achievement of nursing students, mediated through general self-efficacy and learning engagement. These findings underscore the importance of nurturing professional identity as a strategic approach to enhancing academic success in nursing education, providing a foundation for targeted interventions that foster personal and academic growth.