Dimensionality of self-compassion: translation and construct validation of the self-compassion scale in an Italian sample

Background: The construct of self-compassion is receiving increased attention due to its strong link to mental health. Nonetheless, many questions concerning its dimensionality and construct validity remain open. Aims: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the factorial structure and construct validity of the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) in a sample of 424 Italian participants ranging in age from 17 to 65 years. Method: SCS was translated with a back-translation procedure and then administered through an on-line survey, along with measures of self-blame, subjective loneliness, emotion regulation, depression and anxiety. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) confirmed the six-factor model both in the overall sample and in gender and age subgroups. CFA did not support the single higher-order factor of self-compassion, originally found by the author of the scale. Negative associations of Self-Kindness, Common Humanity and Mindfulness subscales with anxiety and depression were confirmed. Moreover, negative correlations of these subscales with self-blame, positive correlations with reappraisal and non-significant associations with expressive suppression and subjective loneliness were found, unveiling aspects of the construct not fully investigated in empirical research. Conclusions: Findings suggest that the SCS is a reliable tool but its dimensionality may vary according to different cultural contexts.