Introduction. Contemporary research considers self-compassion an important internal resource for coping with the consequences of traumatic experiences and maintaining mental health. Empirical evidence indicates that self-compassion can function as a protective factor against post-traumatic stress symptoms, particularly among individuals with adverse childhood experiences (Kitano et al., 2024). Meta-analytic findings further demonstrate a significant inverse relationship between self-compassion and psychopathology (r =−0.54), supporting its role as a key explanatory variable in psychological adaptation, resilience, and recovery processes (MacBeth & Gumley, 2012).
Purpose. To identify psychological resources associated with post-traumatic growth among Ukrainians during the ongoing war.
Method. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed using correlational and regression analyses. Participants included 167 Ukrainians aged 17 to 72 years (median age = 36 years) (December 2024 - March 2025). We used the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS-SF), and the Spiritual Health Assessment Scale.
Results. Significant associations were found between self-compassion and post-traumatic growth. Positive components of self-compassion (self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness) were associated with higher levels of post-traumatic growth, whereas negative components (self-judgment, isolation, and over-identification) showed inverse relationships. Self-kindness demonstrated the strongest links with new possibilities (r = 0.473), relating to others (r = 0.418), and personal strength (r = 0.353), as well as appreciation of life (r = 0.322) and spiritual change (r = 0.251). Common humanity was related to new possibilities (r = 0.303) and personal strength (r = 0.264). Mindfulness was associated with relating to others (r = 0.261), new possibilities (r = 0.359), personal strength (r = 0.336), appreciation of life (r = 0.288), and spiritual change (r = 0.222).
Conclusions. Self-compassion appears to be an important psychological resource associated with post-traumatic growth and adaptive meaning-making in the context of war-related adversity. Developing a supportive, non-judgmental attitude toward oneself may be a key focus for psychological support programs to strengthen resilience and facilitate positive post-traumatic change.