Self-compassion as an adaptive feature of the person

Abstract

In this paper we discuss self-compassion in terms of its role in the personality adaptation. The latter is defined as the maintenance of psychological well-being and functionality in different life events. Additionally, we aimed at adaptation of the Fears of compassion scale. The scale estimates level of compassion and it has not been adapted for Russian culture. The first stage of the study included primary psychometric development and validation of the main research tool. At the second stage two hypotheses were tested: self-compassion is 1) positively related to psychological well-being and authenticity; 2) negatively related to symptomatic (non-clinical) depression. 289 respondents (232 females, 57 males) participated in the study. The Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), the Authenticity Scale, and the Warwick-Edinburgh Psychological Well-Being Scale were used. Validity was tested by means of the Self-compassion scale.
The modified version of the questionnaire, suitable for Russian culture was developed. It demonstrated high validity and reliability, yet its factor structure was not confirmed. It was also shown that self-compassion was positively associated with psychological well-being and authenticity, whereas fear of self-compassion was related to depressive symptoms. Thus, self-compassion is an adaptive personality feature, which improves a person's interaction with oneself and the world. It also allows for maintenance of the integrity of the Self and the quality of life in different life situations.