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Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between attachment styles and interpersonal communication among university students and how self-compassion acts as a moderator between them. A convenience sample of 200 university students (100 males, 100 females) aged 18-25 years was selected to participate in the study. The Attachment Styles Questionnaire, Interpersonal Communication Inventory, and Self-Compassion Scale were used to assess the participants’ attachment styles, interpersonal communication, and self-compassion, respectively. Secure attachment style showed a non-significant but positive link with interpersonal communication and self-compassion. Insecure styles, that is, anxious-preoccupied, fearful-avoidant, and merging, were found to have a significant negative correlation with both. Whereas, dismissive-ambivalent style showed a non-significant negative correlation. On the other hand, interpersonal communication and self-compassion were found to be significantly and positively correlated (r = .29, p < .01). Moreover, regression analysis showed that secure attachment had a non-significant but positive effect, while insecure styles had a significant but negative effect on interpersonal communication. The results of moderation analysis revealed that self-compassion doesn’t moderate the relationship between attachment styles and interpersonal communication. Similarly, t-test results showed a non-significant difference between male and female students with reference to interpersonal communication. The findings of the study highlight the importance of promoting self-compassion in extenuating the impact of different attachment styles on interpersonal communication among university students