Abstract:
The article examines the psychological phenomenon of self-compassion as a
mechanism for overcoming traumatic experiences and enhancing stress resilience within the
framework of Neff’s scientific concept. It is noted that national and cultural traditions in Ukraine
often perceive self-compassion negatively, misinterpreting it as self-pity. Conversely, in cross
cultural psychology, self-compassion is understood as an organic blend of common humanity, self
kindness, and mindfulness. Thus, the aim of the research is to analyze cultural challenges and
develop adaptations that transform self-compassion from a «soft skill» into a «survival
competence». To achieve this objective, a range of theoretical and interpretive methods were
employed, including analysis, synthesis, comparison, generalization, classification, abstraction,
and concretization. The obtained findings were aligned within the frameworks of
ethnopsychological and comparative approaches. Based on the analysis of concepts by Gilbert, P.,
Kuchar, A. L. & Neff, K. D., Linetsky, I., Grinberg, K., & Granot, M., it was determined that Neff’s model
of self-compassion requires not only cultural but also ethnopsychological adaptation. The
proposed model serves as a vital resource-oriented technology for treating traumatic disorders,
preventing various forms of burnout, and enhancing stress resilience. Considering the specific
features of the Ukrainian psychological profile, the adaptation of Neff’s model must involve shifting
the emphasis from «Softness» to «Support,» utilizing collective experience and ideas of national
humanism, and teaching the distinction between immediate physical threats and the anticipation
of threats, without demanding impossible «calmness» during danger.
