Nurturing the Self: Investigating Self-Compassion as a Moderator Between Percieved Paretning Styles and Mental Health Outcomes in Adulthood

Abstract

Introduction: Parenting styles are known to influence long-term mental health outcomes. Authoritarian and permissive styles have been linked to increased anxiety and depression, while self-compassion has emerged as a potential protective factor. However, limited research has explored whether self-compassion can moderate these effects in adulthood. Objectives: This study examined whether self-compassion buffers the relationship between authoritarian and permissive parenting and mental health outcomes in adults, specifically anxiety and depression. Participants: A total of 316 adults (ages 18–67, M = 27.75) completed an online survey assessing perceived parenting styles (PAQ), self-compassion (SCS), anxiety (GAD-7), and depression (BDI-II). Results: Authoritarian parenting predicted higher depression (b = 0.22, p < .001) and anxiety (b = 0.10, p = .006). Self-compassion predicted lower depression (b = –9.17, p < .001) and anxiety (b = –4.57, p < .001). A marginal interaction suggested that self-compassion may buffer depressive symptoms in individuals with authoritarian backgrounds (b = –0.17, p = .053). Permissive parenting showed no significant effects. Discussion: Findings support self-compassion as a potential protective factor against the mental health impacts of authoritarian parenting. Future research should explore long-term effects and intervention strategies that foster self-compassion in at-risk individuals.