Abstract

ABSTRACT This research examined self-compassion and self-esteem as they relate to various aspects of psychological functioning. Selfcompassion entails treating oneself with kindness, recognizing one’s shared humanity, and being mindful when considering negative aspects of oneself. Study 1 (N 5 2,187) compared self-compassion and global self-esteem as they relate to ego-focused reactivity. It was found that self-compassion predicted more stable feelings of self-worth than self-esteem and was less contingent on particular outcomes. Self-compassion also had a stronger negative association with social comparison, public self-consciousness, selfrumination, anger, and need for cognitive closure. Self-esteem (but not selfcompassion) was positively associated with narcissism. Study 2 (N 5 165) compared global self-esteem and self-compassion with regard to positive mood states. It was found that the two constructs were statistically equivalent predictors of happiness, optimism, and positive affect. Results from these two studies suggest that self-compassion may be a useful alternative to global self-esteem when considering what constitutes a healthy self-stance. The current studies examine psychological functioning as it relates to two distinct ways of thinking and feeling about oneself—self-esteem and self-compassion. Before describing the goals of the current studies, background on the constructs of self-esteem and selfcompassion is provided. Global Self-Esteem Over the years psychologists have offered many different definitions of self-esteem (Swann, Chang-Schneider, & McClarty, 2007) and Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Kristin D. Neff,