Psychological Processes in the Social Interaction and Communication Anxiety of University Students : The Role of Self-Compassion and Psychological Flexibility

Abstract

University students often experience difficulties in social interactions. The current study examined the role of self-compassion and psychological flexibility among university students (N= 76) reporting high levels of social interaction and communication anxiety. We observed that high social interaction (SIAS) and communication anxiety (PRCA-24) were associated with low levels of self-compassion and psychological flexibility. Upon further investigating the specific predictors for social interaction and communication anxiety, we found that self-judgment, over-identification and openness to experiences were the key components in self-compassion and psychological flexibility, respectively. However, after examining these components together, only self-judgment and over-identification remained crucial predictors. This suggests that, when training students to manage their anxiety in social situations, attention should be given to promoting skills of self-compassion and psychological flexibility in general. Special attention should be devoted to facilitating a non-critical, accepting and open attitude towards one’s thoughts, emotions and negative interpretations.