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

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to test the mediation effect of narcissism, vulnerable narcissism, and self-compassion in the relationship between attachment dimensions and psychopathology. METHODS: The sample included 203 students, of whom 134 (66%) were women and 69 (34%) men with ages between 18 and 36 years [(mean: 20.73 (SD = 2.86)]. In this study, inventory of experiences in 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 narcissistic personality traits, negatively with self-compassion, and positively with depression and anxiety. However, avoidant attachment was negatively correlated with vulnerable narcissism and narcissistic personality traits. Self-compassion was negatively associated with vulnerable narcissism, depression, and anxiety. When mediating effects were tested, it was found that narcissistic personality traits and vulnerable narcissism had mediating effects both in the relationship between anxious attachment and 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 psychopathologies in terms of preventive mental health, it is thought that it will be important to consider the dimensions of self-compassion and narcissism in the prevention programs to be carried out. Considering the mediating effect of self-compassion, targeting the development of an individual’s non-judgmental attitude toward himself or herself can prevent possible psychological problems and create a buffering effect.