The Association between Awe Experience and Self-Compassion among Educated Young Adults

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the relationship between awe experience and self- compassion among educated young adults aged 18–26 in Pakistan. Self-compassion is associated with emotional well-being, and awe, which is a self-transcendent emotion, has been linked to positive and negative psychological effects. According to the previous studies, awe can improve mindfulness and connectedness, but can also cause self- diminishment. These contradictory directions are critical to attain knowledge about mental health in young adults. It was a quantitative, correlational study that employed a sample of 300 educated young adults, including males (n=150) and females (n=150). The sample was chosen using convenience sampling. The respondents took the Awe Experience Scale and Self-Compassion Scale. The data were studied with the help of descriptive statistics, correlations, and regression analysis. The study analyzed the relationship through Pearson correlation statistical analysis and found that overall awe had a negative correlation with self-compassion. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that the self-loss component of awe negatively predicted self-compassion, and time perception positively predicted self-compassion, which demonstrates the two-fold influence of awe. The t-test indicated that negative awe generated more self-loss and accommodation than positive awe, but there was no difference in total awe scores. Further, non-medical students had more awe experiences when compared to medical students, and there were no notable differences in self-compassion between the two groups. Positive awe-inducing experiences should also be included in future interventions to enhance emotional regulation. It is suggested to replicate with diverse samples and experimental designs to make the causal pathways clearer.