How Do Trait Mindfulness Facets Relate to Compassion for Self and Others: A Network Analysis on the Heartful Aspects of Mindfulness

Abstract Objectives Grounded in the heartfulness framework, this study investigated the interrelations among trait mindfulness, emotion regulation, self-compassion, and compassion towards others. While these constructs have been extensively studied, their interconnections remain underexplored—particularly through network analysis, which models psychological variables as systems of interconnected nodes. By analyzing three networks at the facet and subscale levels, we aimed to clarify the dimensionality of self-compassion, explore its associations with compassion towards others, and examine how trait mindfulness relates to these constructs and emotion regulation. Methods Data were collected from 769 Italian adults (62.94% women; age range: 18–78 years), who completed the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-Short Form (FFMQ-SF), the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), and the Compassion Scale (CS). Results Network analyses supported the bipolar structure of SCS, distinguishing between compassionate and uncompassionate self-responding (CSR and USR). CSR was linked to greater emotional awareness and compassion towards others, while USR was positively associated with emotion dysregulation, particularly nonacceptance and poor strategies. FFMQ facets showed distinct patterns: nonreactivity was positively related to CSR; nonjudging and describing were negatively associated with USR; observing was positively linked to CS; and nonreactivity was negatively associated with CS. Conclusions These findings extend the heartfulness framework by showing how specific mindfulness facets relate differently to emotion regulation, CSR, USR, and compassion for others. To promote psychological and relational well-being, interventions should aim to integrate mindfulness with effective emotion regulation and warm, compassionate attitudes, addressing both dimensions of self-compassion. Preregistration This study is not preregistered.