Nurturing connections: Influence of self-compassion, mental health, and happiness on positive relationships in adults
Published:
Apr 21, 2026
Keywords:
positive relationships, self-compassion, subjective happiness, depression, anxiety, stress
Abstract
The present study explored the predictive role of self-compassion, subjective happiness, depression, anxiety and stress onpositive relationships among adults aged 18-65. Despite substantial research on these individual variables, their predictive role on positive relationships, still need to be explored. This research employed a cross-sectional, correlational design with a diverse sample of 536 participants. Self-compassion, subjective happiness, depression, anxiety, stress, and positive relationships were measured using established scales. Results revealed that subjective happiness and depression significantly predicted positive relationships. Notably, as subjective happiness increased, so did the quality of positive relationships. In contrast, an increase in depression scores was associated with decreased positive relationships. This research contributes to understanding the complex associations among positive and negative psychological constructs in predicting the quality of positive relationships. Findings have implications for interventions promoting positive relationships and overall psychological well-being. Future research could delve further into these relationships, potentially including additional variables or employing longitudinal or experimental designs.
Article Details
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Karakasidou, E., Raftopoulou, G., & Daskalaki , M. (2026). Nurturing connections: Influence of self-compassion, mental health, and happiness on positive relationships in adults. Psychology: The Journal of the Hellenic Psychological Society, 31(1), 170–184. https://doi.org/10.12681/psy_hps.45300
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