The mediating role of experimental avoidance in the relationship between self-compassion and psychological well-being in people with multiple sclerosis

Various psychological factors often threaten the psychological well-being of people with multiple sclerosis, and it is important to study the psychosocial status of these patients. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate the mediating role of experimental avoidance in the relationship between self-compassion and psychological well-being in patients with MS.

This was a descriptive-correlation study. The sample size included 220 people with MS living in Tehran in 2020 who were selected by available sampling method. To collect data, Short-form Ryff Psychological Well-Being (PWBS), Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (AAQ-II) were used. Finally, data were analyzed by the Pearson correlation and structural equation model.

The self-compassion had a significant positive correlation with psychological well-being (r=0.66, p<0.01) and a significant negative correlation with experimental avoidance (r=-0.72, p<0.01). Also, experimental avoidance had a significant negative correlation with psychological well-being (r=-0.65, p<0.01). The results of the indirect effect showed that self-compassion can significantly predict psychological well-being through the mediation of experimental avoidance (β=0.35; p<0.001).

According to the research findings, it can be acknowledged that experiential avoidance and self-compassion have an important role and influence on the psychological well-being of people with MS. Based on this, it can be concluded that by increasing psychological flexibility (reducing experimental avoidance), psychological well-being can be improved to some extent.