Abstract

Background: Self-compassion and mindfulness are psychological constructs positively associated with well-being; however, they remain under-examined within the Saudi and Arab contexts. Aims: The study aimed to examine levels of dispositional self-compassion and mindfulness in Saudi society and to explore variations by health status and sociodemographic factors. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 595 Saudi adults from the general community, utilising the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) and the Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). Results: The participants exhibited above-average dispositional self-compassion and mindfulness. No significant gender differences were observed in total SCS and FFMQ scores. However, males scored higher on the mindfulness subscale and lower on the overidentification subscale of the SCS. Regarding the FFMQ subscales, males showed lower observing scores and higher nonreactivity scores than females. Participants reporting psychological issues showed lower levels of both total self-compassion and mindfulness. Discussion: The results were interpreted in light of specific cultural aspects of Saudi society, specifically collectivism and religion.

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