From self-compassion to obsessive-compulsive symptoms: the mediator role of intolerance of uncertainty

Abstract

High intolerance of uncertainty (IoU) is a well-defined risk and maintenance factor for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Studies have identified different antecedents of IoU, adding low self-compassion to this list. High self-compassion may make it easier for people to cope with uncertain situations and reduce self-blame and control in these situations. Although the protective role of self-compassion in different psychopathologies has been examined, few studies have investigated its role in OCD. No study has investigated the importance of the relationship between self-compassion and IoU for OCD symptoms. Considering that individuals with high self-compassion tendencies do not impose negative feelings on themselves in the face of uncertainties and are more tolerant of them, the association between self-compassion and IoU might be necessary for OCD. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between self-compassion, IoU, and OCD symptoms and test the mediating role of IoU between self-compassion and OCD symptoms. Four hundred-one adults voluntarily participated in the study and completed measures about self-compassion, IoU, OCD, depression, and anxiety. Results demonstrated the negative correlation between self-compassion and IoU and OCD. Mediation analysis results confirmed the hypothesis that self-compassion was associated with obsessive-compulsive symptoms through the IoU when controlling for depression and anxiety symptoms, gender, and age. Our findings were consistent with recent studies showing the importance of self-related psychological constructs for OCD. Low self-compassion is a feature that needs to be examined in this context as an essential initiator of obsessions and compulsions.