Disentangling the links between self-compassion, basic psychological needs and well-being

Mechanisms linking self-compassion and well-being are being actively investigated. While there is initial evidence that basic psychological needs can explain the link between self-compassion and well-being, it is still unknown whether the links of self-compassion with psychological well-being and life satisfaction are also mediated by basic psychological needs. This study tested these mediation models, taking into account both positive and negative aspects of self-compassion as well as both satisfaction and frustration of basic psychological needs. Both satisfaction and frustration of basic psychological needs acted as mechanisms linking compassionate and uncompassionate self-responding with life satisfaction and psychological well-being, providing support for existing theories.