Attitudes to pets : can attitudes toward pets predict self-compassion?
Authors
Kilty, Brendan
Issue Date
2012
Degree
BA (Hons) in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
The relationship between attitudes to pets and self-compassion has not been examined psychologically in relation to each other. This research examined pet and non-pet owners’ attitudes (positive and negative) regarding pets, their levels of perceived stress and levels of self-compassion. No significant values were found in relation to attitude to pets and self-compassion. A significant finding was found supporting the evidence that self-compassion is negatively correlated to perceived stress. Significant findings were found supporting the evidence that pet owners report lower levels of perceived stress than non-pet owners. Age was found to be positively correlated to self-compassion: self-compassion increases with age. Gender differences indicate that women’s levels of self-compassion are significantly stronger than men’s levels over time. Author keywords: Pets, self-compassion, pet effect controversy