Unraveling the Layers of Empathy: Self-Compassion as a Partial Mediator in Male and Female Offenders' Personal Distress and Aggression.

Autor: Moreno, Isabel R., Comes-Fayos, Javier, Bressanutti, Sara, Blasco-Ros, Concepción, Martínez, Manuela, Lila, Marisol, Romero-Martínez, Ángel, Moya-Albiol, Luis
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Zdroj: Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma; Jul2024, Vol. 33 Issue 7, p900-918, 19p
Abstrakt: Violence and offending pose significant public health concerns, and understanding the factors associated with these behaviors is crucial for effective intervention and prevention programs. While extensive research has focused on risk factors, the role of protective factors, such as empathy and self-compassion, has received less attention. This study examines the predictive value of cognitive and affective empathy on aggression and explores the mediating role of self-compassion in the relationship between personal distress and aggression within an offender population. A sample of 120 offenders (90 men and 30 women) completed self-report measures of aggression (Aggression Questionnaire), empathy (Interpersonal Reactivity Index) and self-compassion (Self-compassion scale – Short Form). Additionally, a semi-structured interview was conducted to collect sociodemographic information and criminal history. Results showed a negative association between perspective-taking (a cognitive empathy component) and aggression, while personal distress (an affective empathy component) positively predicted aggression. Self-compassion partially mediated the relationship between personal distress and aggression, indicating its potential role in reducing violent tendencies. These findings highlight the importance of considering empathy and self-compassion in understanding and addressing aggression in offenders. Specifically, a deeper understanding of the affective empathy construct and considering self-compassion as a complementary tool could enhance gender-inclusive prevention and intervention programs, potentially reducing recidivism rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index