RELATIONSHIPS AMONGST SELF-COMPASSION, SELF-ESTEEM AND SCHIZOTYPY

Aims and Objectives The primary aim of the research was to investigate the nature of the relationships between self-compassion, self-esteem and schizotypy using a non-clinical sample. A secondary aim was to investigate the mechanisms which help to explain any relationships found. In utilising a non-clinical sample the study aimed to determine whether relationships exist between the variables prior to the onset of psychosis within a continuum approach to schizotypy. A final objective was to identify specific correlates of self-compassion and schizotypy through detailed subscale analyses. Method The study utilised a quantitative, cross-sectional design. Participants completed self-report questionnaires via a secure website host measuring: self-compassion, global self-esteem, and trait schizotypy. A total of 93 participants took part in the research. Results As predicted, highly significant negative correlations were determined between self-compassion and schizotypy, and between self-esteem and schizotypy. With respect to the mechanisms through which these variables were related, self-compassion was not found to moderate the relationship between self-esteem and schizotypy. However, self-compassion and schizotypy were found to be related via both a direct and an indirect route, which was mediated by self-esteem. Conclusions The study is the first to investigate the nature of the relationships amongst self-compassion, self-esteem and schizotypy in a non-clinical population, utilising the schizotypy construct as an analogue of the psychosis continuum. The findings indicated that there may be both a direct, and an indirect route through self-esteem, RELATIONSHIPS AMONGST SELF-COMPASSION, SELF-ESTEEM AND SCHIZOTYPY iv which accounted for the relationship between self-compassion and schizotypy. The results mirror associations determined within clinical populations. The authors argues that in utilising schizotypy as an analogue of the psychosis continuum the results of this study provide evidence that self-esteem and self-compassion may reflect underlying mechanisms which could underpin schizotypal symptomatology.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

phd

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

doctoral

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of East Anglia

Year dc:date.issued

2014

Author dc:creator

• Marshall, Nicola

Language dc:language

en