In the past two decades, several scholars from different disciplines have conducted theoretical research and practical explorations on the issue of psychological capital and achieved certain research results. Yet, few studies have synthesized the psychological capital related to academic outcomes among university students. Thus, the aim of this article is to explore how PsyCap is described in an academic context and how PsyCap and academic-related outcomes are related. A comprehensive systematic review was conducted on 43 studies between 2012 and 2022, sourced from six leading databases: Web of Science, Scopus, ERIC, PsyINFO (EBSCO), Springerlink, and ScienceDirect. Our selection criteria focused on empirical research that specifically discussed PsyCap's impact on university students' academic performance. This review identifies personal and social factors that influence the development of PsyCap in university students, such as self-esteem, motivation, gratitude, family support, and peer relationships. We found that PsyCap plays a key role in academic outcomes, including academic performance, engagement, burnout, adjustment, stress, and intrinsic motivation. Highlighting the significance of PsyCap in academic settings, our study underscores the need for further research on its relationship with student outcomes. Given the substantial influence of PsyCap on academic performance, institutions should consider incorporating psychological capital development programs into their curriculum. Such initiatives could optimize the academic achievements and holistic well-being of students.
Keywords: ATLAS.ti 22; academic outcomes; academic performance; psychological capital; review; university students.
© 2023 Li et al.