The Contribution of Self-Compassion in the Relationship between Social Support and Posttraumatic Growth

Abstract

Introduction. - Despite well-established evidence on the relationship between social support and post traumatic growth (PTG), there remains a paucity of evidence regarding the mechanism that underlie this relationship. Objective. - This study examined the relationship between social support and PTG, while exploring self compassion as an intermediatory factor in this association. Method. - A cross-sectional study with 447 college students was conducted in Trabzon, Turkey. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Results. - Results indicated that perceived social support and self-compassion were associated with PTG. Furthermore, a significant indirect effect between social support and PTG via self-compassion emerged. Conclusion. - Based on the study findings, tailored intervention programs targeting self-compassion and perceived social support in trauma-exposed young adults may be useful for promoting posttraumatic growth.(c) 2021 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.