JOURNAL ARTICLE

Self-Compassion, Anxiety and Depression Symptoms; the Mediation of Shame and Guilt.

  • Published In: Psychological Reports, 2026, v. 129, n. 1. P. 127 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Etemadi Shamsababdi, Paria; Dehshiri, Gholam Reza 3 of 3

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between self-compassion and symptoms of anxiety and depression, focusing on the mediating roles of shame and guilt among 243 Iranian adults. Results indicate that higher self-compassion is significantly associated with lower shame, guilt, depression, and anxiety. Mediation analyses reveal that shame and guilt partially mediate the link between self-compassion and depressive symptoms, while shame—but not guilt—fully mediates the relationship between self-compassion and anxiety symptoms. The findings suggest that self-compassion may enhance psychological well-being by reducing self-conscious negative emotions, highlighting its potential as a target for interventions addressing anxiety and depression.

Additional Information

  • Source:Psychological Reports. 2026/02, Vol. 129, Issue 1, p127
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Psychology
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0033-2941
  • DOI:10.1177/00332941241227525
  • Accession Number:190387502
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