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Self-compassion as a protective factor against post-traumatic stress symptoms induced by adverse childhood experiences: A cross-sectional study among Japan air self-defense force new recruits.

Authors :
Kitano M
van der Does FHS
Saito T
Giltay EJ
Chiba T
Edo N
Waki F
Tachimori H
Koga M
van der Wee NJ
Vermetten E
Nagamine M
Source :
Journal of psychiatric research [J Psychiatr Res] 2024 Dec; Vol. 180, pp. 204-212. Date of Electronic Publication: 2024 Oct 15.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) may result in long-term mental health complications, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). ACEs are known to be more frequent among military personnel, despite their need to maintain their mental health to accomplish their missions. Self-compassion, or treating oneself with kindness and understanding, can mitigate the psychological effects of adversity but is also affected by adversity. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the complex relationships between ACEs, self-compassion, and PTSD symptoms among 752 new recruits of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, of whom 537 with ACEs completed the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used to examine the independent effect of self-compassion, measured using the Self-Compassion Scale, on PTSD symptoms. Mediation effect analysis with self-compassion as a mediator was conducted on the relationship between ACEs and PTSD symptoms. We confirmed high levels of ACEs among our participants compared to a healthy population of a previous study, and approximately 6% presented PTSD symptoms above a threshold. Self-compassion was significantly negatively associated with PTSD symptoms (β = -.22, 95% confidence interval [CI], -.34 to -.11). Mediation effect analysis revealed that self-compassion partially mediated the relationship between ACEs and PTSD symptoms, explaining 6.9% of this effect, and ACEs were negatively associated with self-compassion (β = -.13, 95% CI, -.22 to -.04). These findings suggested that self-compassion is a protective factor against PTSD symptoms, whereas ACEs can decrease self-compassion. Further research should explore educational interventions to enhance self-compassion among individuals with ACEs to mitigate PTSD symptoms.<br />Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The author declares no conflicts of interest.<br /> (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1879-1379
Volume :
180
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Journal of psychiatric research
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
39442323
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.10.010