The mediating role of cognitive flexibility in the impact of self-compassion on stress and anxiety levels in young adults

The purpose of this study is to examine the mediating role of cognitive flexibility in the relationship between self-compassion and levels of stress and anxiety in young adult individuals. Within this framework, 380 individuals, comprising 273 females and 107 males, were included in the research. The study was designed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The data collection instruments included a Demographic Information Form prepared by the researcher, the Self-Compassion Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Cognitive Flexibility Inventory (CFI). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 27 and AMOS 24 software. The reliability of the scales was evaluated using Cronbach's Alpha coefficients. The level and direction of the relationship between the scales were examined using the Pearson correlation method. A two-step structural equation model was used to assess the mediating role. According to the findings of the study, negative relationships were found between Self-Compassion and Anxiety, Self-Compassion and Stress, Cognitive Flexibility and Anxiety, and Cognitive Flexibility and Stress variables. Additionally, it was determined that Cognitive Flexibility fully mediated the relationship between Self-Compassion and Anxiety, while partially mediating the relationship between Self-Compassion and Stress. As a result, as levels of self-compassion increase among young adult participants, levels of stress and anxiety decrease. All findings obtained from the research are discussed in detail in the discussion section. Based on the results, recommendations have been made.