Perceived self-compassion and self-esteem as self-evaluation constructs in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, non-psychotic and healthy people: a comparative study based on group and gender differences

This study aimed to investigate the levels of self-compassion and self-esteem as a self-evaluation in patients with psychotic disorders, non-psychotic disorders, and normal people. In this causal-comparative study, 60 psychotic, 60 non-psychotic patients and 140 students were selected via convenience sampling method. Using Rosenberg's Self-Esteem Scale and Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), they were compared. Results showed that the level of self-esteem significantly differs between patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and normal people and also between non-psychotic disorders and normal people. The level of self-esteem in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and non-psychotic patients was lower than in healthy individuals. Gender differences were not significant. However, the interaction effects of three groups of schizophrenic patients, non-psychotic patients, and healthy people, and two genders (3x2) were significant. Based on the results, the level of self-compassion in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and non-psychotic patients was lower than in healthy people. Gender differences were not significant. However, the interaction effects of three groups of schizophrenic patients, non-psychotic patients, and healthy people, and two genders (3x2) were significant. The findings indicated that patients with schizophrenia showed low levels of self-compassion and self-esteem; therefore, it is essential to implement targeted treatment methods aimed at enhancing self-compassion and self-esteem in this population.