Coping with self-threat: the impact of self-compassion and self-affirmation on intrinsic contingent self-worth

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Author/Creator ORCID

Date

2016-08-31

Department

Towson University. Department of Psychology

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Abstract

Self-esteem varies interpersonally along with the dimensions by which people base their respective self-esteem, referred to as contingencies of self-worth (CSW). The present study sought to manipulate an intrinsic domain of CSW by implementing self-affirmation and self compassion strategies. A total of 156 participants reflected upon a threat (n = 79) or did not (n = 77). Participants were also placed in a strategy condition of either control (n = 50), self-affirmation (n = 53), or self-compassion (n = 53). Participants then completed the Contingencies of Self-Esteem Scale and a current feelings questionnaire. Results revealed that there were no significant main effects on intrinsic contingent self-worth. Secondary analyses revealed a significant effect of threat on extrinsic contingent self-worth and also an interaction effect of threat and strategy on negative affect. A major limitation was the use of a social threat to manipulate intrinsic contingent self-worth.