Self-Compassion as Resistance: Exploring the Benefits of Self-Compassion for Queer Couples

Self-compassion can be understood as cultivating a gentle and understanding relationship with the self. The benefits of self-compassion for romantic relationships as well as for LGBTQ+ individuals have been well-established in the literature. However, no studies to date have examined the association between self-compassion and relationship quality for queer couples. Furthermore, given the established negative connection between internalized stigma and relationship quality, it is important to consider how internalized stigma may affect this association. Thus, the following research question was tested: What are the associations between self-compassion, internalized stigma, and relationship quality for queer couples? A sample of 143 queer couples was recruited to complete an online survey that assessed the variables of interest. The data was analyzed using an Actor-Partner Interdependence Mediation Model to identify the mediating role of internalized stigma on the associations between self-compassion and relationship quality. This model yielded significant indirect effects, thus supporting the idea that internalized stigma helps to explain the relationship between self-compassion and relationship quality for queer couples. The clinical implications of this study highlight the importance of addressing internalized stigma in queer couples who aim to increase relationship quality. One such way of addressing internalized stigma may be via self-compassion interventions. Future directions and additional clinical implications are discussed.