Does Self-Compassion Buffer Against the Potential Effects of Perfectionism and Psychopathology on Non-Suicidal Self-Injury?

University students with increased rates of reported perfectionism, anxiety, and depression, are vulnerable to non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). However, not all students with psychological distress engage in NSSI, suggesting protective factors may help to mitigate this risk. The present study examined the relation between perfectionism and NSSI, via the mediating effects of anxiety and depression, and the moderating role of self-compassion. Participants were 338 university students (67% female; 87% White) who completed several self-report measures. Students with greater perfectionism reported higher levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms and, in turn, more NSSI engagement. Self-compassion and several self-compassionate domains attenuated connections between perfectionism and psychopathology and between depression and NSSI; conversely, non-self-compassionate domains strengthened associations between perfectionism and psychopathology. Addressing NSSI risk factors (e.g., perfectionism and psychopathology) and fostering self-compassion may reduce the risk of heightened anxiety and depression among perfectionists, consequently reducing their likelihood of NSSI engagement.