The Role of Self-Compassion and Compassion in Adolescent Flourishing

Suffering is an inherent part of every stage of human development, but adolescence presents challenges that not only increase the possibilities of experiencing it but also shape patterns in how emotional pain is addressed. At the same time, this stage offers unique opportunities for growth and flourishing. Self-compassion and compassion are key psychological resources that promote social, psychological, and emotional well-being. This study examines their role in the flourishing of Argentinian adolescents. A total of 679 adolescents (70% female), aged 13 to 19 (M = 15.11; SD = 1.52) completed the Brief Self-compassion Scale, the Compassion Scale, and the Multidimensional Flourishing Scale. Pearson’s r correlation analyses, hierarchical regressions, and structural equation models were conducted. Results showed significant associations between the dimensions of self-compassion and the dimensions of flourishing, as well as between the dimensions of compassion and flourishing. Self-compassion emerged as a stronger predictor of flourishing than compassion, with self-kindness and kindness as the most influential dimensions. Kindness was also found to mediate the relationship between self-kindness and flourishing. These findings underscore the importance of self-compassion and compassion as resources for fostering flourishing and promoting well-being during adolescence. Adolescents who treat themselves kindly tend to treat others kindly, enhancing their overall flourishing.