Associations Among Self-Compassion, Eating Behaviors, and Stress in College Freshmen

Abstract

Purpose: Few studies have investigated the potential relationship between self-compassion and eating behaviors. Self-compassion has been shown to improve one's ability to respond more effectively to various situations and stressors by embracing the constructs of self-kindness, common humanity and mindfulness. This study examined correlations between self-compassion, eating behaviors and stress in first-time college freshmen.Methods: First-time freshmen (N=1477), ages 18-22 years (63% female), self-reported measures of Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ), and Self-Compassion Scale (SCS). Associations among PSS, SCS and TFEQ scores were examined with Pearson correlations by gender. Differences by gender were explored with ttests.Results: There were significant (p < 0.01) correlations between disinhibition and negative SCS constructs (self-judgment, r = 0.29; isolation, r = 0.23; over-identification, r = 0.28) and restraint and self-judgment in females (r = 0.26). Females scored significantly higher than males on PSS and negative SCS subscales (p < 0.05). Conclusion:Interventions increasing self-compassion and reducing stress may optimally support psychological and behavioral wellbeing as students transition into college. Future research needs to understand how self-compassion interventions may attenuate the inimical cycle of dietary restraint and disinhibition in university students.

Psychological Inflexibility, Ruminative Thinking, Worry and Self- Compassion in Relation to College Adjustment

“…These findings were in parallel with the literature as Morrison and O'Connor (2005) stated that ruminative thoughts and stress could be the major causes of psychological distress in college students. In addition, self-compassionate attitude among college students was significantly and positively related to well-being (Bluth & Blanton, 2014) and negatively related to stress in college (James, 2013). Moreover, psychologically inflexible students have some difficulties in college adjustment process.…”

Online Video-Mediated Compassion Training Program for Mental Health and Well-Being of University Students

“…Interventions that reduce stress and increase self-compassion may positively impact college students' behavioral and psychological well-being [36]. Despite these benefits, compassion education and training curricula remain largely inaccessible for many college students due to the program's length, costs, teaching schedules, and methods.…”

Self-Compassion, Mindful Eating, Eating Attitudes and Wellbeing

“…Therefore, self-compassionate eaters are considered to demonstrate less emotional eating and lower eating disorder psychopathology (Kelly et al, 2014). Findings from a study carried out by Swan et al (2016) showed that self-compassion can aid in decreasing self-judgement, meanwhile increasing self-regulation of dietary restraint. Thus, through a more realistic self-appraisal, selfcompassionate individuals have the ability to focus on healthy eating goals (Breines and Chen, 2012).…”

“…In addition, McKinley and Hyde (1996) state that maladaptive eating is partially a result of self-criticism (Raes et al, 2010). Previous research has supported the psychological benefits of self-compassion, however there is limited research considering its impact on behaviours relating to health, such as eating behaviours (Swan et al, 2016). Therefore, Mantzios and Egan (2017) state that self-compassion is a trait which requires further research, as it is unclear as to whether it leads to healthy eating behaviours and decisions regarding food.…”