Year: 2014
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Aims and Objectives \nThe 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. \nMethod \nThe 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. \nResults \nAs 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. \nConclusions \nThe 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, \nRELATIONSHIPS AMONGST SELF-COMPASSION, SELF-ESTEEM AND SCHIZOTYPY iv \nwhich 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.
Author: Nicola Marshall
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W843491813