We are all human beings: self-compassion predicts lower dehumanization in intimate relationships
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Given that past research has illustrated the aversive effect of dehumanization in intimate relationships, such as lowering victims’ well-being, further studies are needed to identify resilience factors against dehumanizing intimate partners. This study proposed self-compassion as such a factor because it helps individuals experience more positive and less negative affect when thinking about their partners. This study hypothesized that self-compassion would predict lower dehumanization through higher positive affect and lower negative affect in intimate relationships. Across three studies (total N = 1,270)―two correlational (Studies 1 and 2) and one experimental (Study 3)―self-compassion was consistently associated with lower dehumanization toward romantic partners (Study 1) and spouses (Studies 2 and 3). Furthermore, trait (Study 2) and induced (Study 3) self-compassion predicted lower dehumanization through higher positive affect and lower negative affect in intimate relationships. The influence of self-compassion on dehumanization through relationship-related affect was independent of self-esteem and the perception of relationship qualities, such as relationship satisfaction. Overall, these results suggest that self-compassion serves as a resilience factor against dehumanizing intimate partners.
Source: Self and Identity
Authors: Yuki Miyagawa, Jia Wei Zhang
Institutions: Otemon Gakuin University, University of Memphis
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7214515600
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