Comparison of Mindfulness, Psychological Capital, and Self-compassion between Students with Externalizing Behavior Problems and Normal Students

Background: The aim of this research was to compare mindfulness, psychological capital, and self-compassion between students with externalizing problems and normal students in Isfahan city, Iran. Methods: The statistical population of this case-control study included all the students with externalizing problems and normal students in Isfahan city in the academic year of 2017 - 2018. We used purposive non-probability sampling to collect the samples. In this regard, 100 students with externalizing problems and 100 normal students were selected and asked to complete questionnaires. The questionnaires used in this study included Mindfulness Skills questionnaires, Self-compassion questionnaire, and PSY CAP (The Psychological Capital) questionnaires. The data were analyzed by SPSS23 using analysis of variance. Results: The results showed that the mindfulness, PSY CAP, and self-compassion were significantly different between the two groups (P-value 0.0001). The students with externalizing problems had lower scores in mindfulness, PSY CAP, and self-compassion than the normal students. Conclusion: Students with externalizing behavior problems had lower mental health due to their vulnerable cognitive and psychological processes. Accordingly, mindfulness, PSY CAP, and self-compassion scores were significantly different between the normal students and those with externalizing problems. Considering this difference, we suggest the authorities to pay enough attention to such varieties and conduct appropriate interventions accordingly.