Self-Compassion Scale Short Form (SCS-SF)

Self-compassion, a concept developed and popularized by Neff K, involves treating oneself with kindness during times of difficulty and recognizing that suffering is part of the shared human experience. The practice of being kind and understanding toward yourself and treating yourself with the same care and empathy you would offer a friend.

Self-compassion significantly enhances mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. It promotes emotional resilience, helping individuals recover more quickly from setbacks and maintain a balanced perspective on life’s challenges. People with higher self-compassion often experience greater happiness, life satisfaction, and emotional stability.

While global self-esteem reflects an individual’s overall sense of self-worth, self-compassion offers a more stable and unconditional source of self-regard (Neff & Vonk, 2009). Unlike self-esteem, which often relies on external achievements and social comparisons, self-compassion supports positive psychological functioning by allowing individuals to maintain a healthy attitude and positive self-view, even in the face of failure or setbacks. This promotes greater emotional stability and resilience, fostering a more consistent sense of self-worth.