Self-Compassion Scale – SCS
Measures an individual's level of self-compassion across six distinct components during difficult times.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Self-Compassion Scale – SCS was developed by Kristin D. Neff (2003). It is designed to measure Self-Compassion. The scale is intended for use with Adults.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 26 items organized into 6 factors/subscales: Self-Kindness, Self-Judgment, Common Humanity, Isolation, Mindfulness, Over-identified.
| Factor / Subscale | Items | N |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Kindness | 5,12,19,23,26 | 5 |
| Self-Judgment | 1,8,11,16,21 | 5 |
| Common Humanity | 3,7,10,15 | 4 |
| Isolation | 4,13,18,25 | 4 |
| Mindfulness | 9,14,17,22 | 4 |
| Over-identified | 2,6,20,24 | 4 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Almost Never, 2 = 2, 3 = Sometimes, 4 = 4, 5 = Almost Always.
The scale includes 13 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are scored by subscale, with each subscale sum representing a distinct dimension.
Total scores range from 1 to 5. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Self-Compassion: 1 – 2
- Moderate Self-Compassion: 2 – 3
- High Self-Compassion: 3 – 5
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.78 – 0.93.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.