Validation of the Two-Factor Collaborative Structure of the Chinese Adult Self-Compassion Scale and Its Clinical Implications

To advance culturally sensitive measurement, this study examined the structural universality and specificity of the Chinese Adult Self-Compassion Scale (SCS-CA) in China. Data from Chinese adults (<i>N</i> = 1,638) completing the SCS-CA and Parental Burnout Assessment were analyzed using exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM; testing eight competing models), bifactor indexes (assessing total score utility), exploratory graph analysis (EGA; mapping the network structure), and external validity tests. ESEM supported both six- and two-factor models, but the two-factor model (compassionate self-responding vs. uncompassionate self-responding) fit best. Bifactor indexes ruled out the use of a single total score. EGA confirmed a synergistic two-dimensional structure, identifying self-judgment as the central node and common humanity as the key bridge. The uncompassionate self-responding dimension also emerged as a significantly stronger predictor of parental burnout. The results establish a culturally specific, two-dimensional model of self-compassion for China, revealing distinct dynamics between its components and providing a foundation for tailored interventions and future research.