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Investigating associations between self-compassion, self-criticism and psychotic-like experiences
Siobhan Collman1, Charles Heriot-Maitland2, Emmanuelle Peters2,3
1University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
Psychology and Psychotherapy
|September 25, 2023
Summary
Self-criticism, particularly self-hatred, is linked to psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) in the general population. However, self-compassion did not show an association with PLEs, suggesting distinct relationships.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Dimensional approaches conceptualize psychotic symptoms on a continuum, with psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) representing a non-clinical phenotype.
- Self-criticism is implicated in the maintenance and distress of psychotic symptoms, while self-compassion may offer protective effects.
- The relationship between self-criticism, self-compassion, and PLEs in the general population requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the associations between self-criticism, self-compassion, and psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) in a general population sample.
- To test the hypothesis that PLE endorsement is positively associated with self-criticism and negatively associated with self-compassion.
Main Methods:
- A quantitative, cross-sectional study utilizing an online questionnaire.
- Data were collected from 531 participants using the Self-Compassion Scale (Short Form), Forms of Self-Criticising/Attacking and Self-Reassuring Scale, and Transpersonal Experiences Questionnaire.
- Linear regression analysis was employed, controlling for demographic variables. Participants with a psychosis-related diagnosis were excluded.
Main Results:
- The self-criticism subtype 'self-hatred' demonstrated a significant positive association with PLE endorsement.
- 'Self-inadequacy,' another subtype of self-criticism, was not associated with PLEs.
- No significant association was found between self-compassion and PLEs. Higher educational attainment was negatively associated with PLE endorsement.
Conclusions:
- Self-criticism, specifically self-hatred, is associated with PLEs, indicating a distinct relationship separate from self-compassion.
- The findings suggest that self-criticism and self-compassion may represent independent factors influencing PLEs.
- Targeting self-criticism in psychological interventions could be beneficial for individuals experiencing PLEs and may aid in assessing psychosis risk.
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