An Exploration of the Utilization of Self-compassion among Emerging Adult African American and Latino Students

Allen Eugene Lipscomb, Daniel Gaines

(Social Work Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, California State University Northridge, USA)

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to explore the utilization of and barriers to self-compassion in emerging adult African American and Latino students. Researchers conducted 22 in-depth interviews and coded data using the Grounded Theory Method. The study revealed that students’ of color greatest sources of self-judgment were poor school performance, dropping out of school, and disappointing and emotionally hurting family members. Furthermore, researchers found that participants’ responses were generally high in the self-kindness component of self-compassion and that after such experiences most were able to move forward in their lives. These results may serve to inform human service providers and educators of the potential benefits of including self-compassion training; and education programs centered on self-worth, self-esteem and self-efficacy for emerging adult students of color. It is vital that emerging adult students of color are equipped to deal with challenges and adversities of postsecondary education and ultimately — their life.

Key words: race, self-compassion, students, African American, Latino, emerging adult