A Study to Assess the Impact of Self- Compassion on Willingness to Forgive Infidelity in Married People

Abstract

This study investigates the intricate interplay between self-compassion and forgiveness in the context of marital infidelity. It aims to evaluate how self-compassion influences the readiness to forgive infidelity among married individuals. The study surveyed 140 married individuals, aged 30 to 45 from Delhi and nearby regions through purposive sampling. The Self-Compassion Scale Short Form (SCS-SF) and Rye Forgiveness Scale (RFS) assessed self-compassion and forgiveness willingness, respectively. Statistical analyses, including correlation, regression and t-test, were conducted using SPSS v21. The study found a significant positive correlation (r = 0.709, p < .01) between self-compassion and forgiveness readiness, thus supporting the study hypothesis. Furthermore, gender differences were observed where males exhibited higher self-compassion (M = 43.03) and willingness to forgive infidelity (M = 52.82) compared to females (self-compassion: M = 40.62, willingness to forgive infidelity: M = 46.82). Overall, this study sheds light on the nuanced dynamics between self-compassion and forgiveness within marital contexts, offering valuable implications for relationship counseling, support groups, restorative justice programs, and educational settings.