Mediating Role of Narcissism, Vulnerable Narcissism,and Self-Compassion in the Relationship BetweenAttachment Dimensions and Psychopathology

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to test the mediation effect of narcissism, vulnerable narcissism, andself-compassion in the relationship between attachment dimensions and psychopathology. Methods: The sample included 203 students, of whom 134 (66%) were women and 69 (34%) menwith ages between 18 and 36 years [(mean: 20.73 (SD = 2.86)]. In this study, inventory of experiencesin close relationships, Beck depression scale, Beck anxiety scale, narcissistic personality inventory,vulnerable narcissism scale, and self-compassion scale were used. Results: Anxious attachment was positively correlated with vulnerable narcissism and narcissis tic personality traits, negatively with self-compassion, and positively with depression and anxiety.However, avoidant attachment was negatively correlated with vulnerable narcissism and narcissisticpersonality traits. Self-compassion was negatively associated with vulnerable narcissism, depression,and anxiety. When mediating effects were tested, it was found that narcissistic personality traits andvulnerable narcissism had mediating effects both in the relationship between anxious attachmentand anxiety and in the relationship between anxious attachment and depression. Conclusion: As it is known that insecure attachment is associated with the development of many psycho pathologies in terms of preventive mental health, it is thought that it will be important to consider thedimensions of self-compassion and narcissism in the prevention programs to be carried out. Consideringthe mediating effect of self-compassion, targeting the development of an individual’s non-judgmental at titude toward himself or herself can prevent possible psychological problems and create a buffering effect.