How Aspects of Self-Compassion Contribute to Wellbeing and the Effect of Age

This study investigating the differential contribution of self-compassion subcomponents to wellbeing, and examined the effect of age. A total of 275 participants (219 females) completed demographic measures, the Self-Compassion Scale, the Mental Health Index, and a Social Desirability Scale. Hierarchical Multiple Regression indicated that the self-kindness and mindfulness subcomponents predicted wellbeing, whereas the self-judgement, isolation and over-identification subcomponents predicted psychological distress. Furthermore, the negative self-compassion subcomponents accounted for additional variance in psychological wellbeing. Self-compassion was also significantly higher in older adults. This research consolidates previous findings, increases the scope of self-compassion research, and may have practical implications in treatment.