Association between Self-Compassion and Demographics of University Students Adjusted by Gratitude

Abstract

The purpose of this quantitative research was to assess the association between self-compassion and demographics adjusted by gratitude for university students. A convenience sample of 104 social work students at a public northeastern in the United States completed an online survey that included Self-Compassion Scale Short Form (SCS-s), Gratitude Questionnaire, and demographic information. Increased gratitude was associated with increased self-compassion in all the tested models. Individuals aged 23 or younger, from larger households, leaning independents/moderate democrats, and higher spirituality, had a higher level of self-compassion. Students from rural areas had a higher level of self-compassion than those from suburban regions, but lower self-compassion than those residing in urban areas. Participants with advanced degree had relatively low self-compassion compared with those with a two-year or a four-year degree. Implications of the findings are discussed, including the potential value of incorporating self-compassion and gratitude training in curricular and extracurricular activities in universities.