Intergroup trust as a mediator between compassion and positive attitudes toward sexual minorities

Abstract

Nurturing compassion is not only beneficial for one’s well-being in terms of feelings and cognitions directed toward oneself, but it can also have positive effects on attitudes toward other people through associated humanity and recognition of the universality of suffering. Having compassion toward others may be particularly beneficial in intergroup relations, as minority and stigmatized groups often experience a lack of compassion from the majority. The present study (N = 244) examines the relation between self-compassion, compassion toward others, and the level of trust and positive attitudes toward members of sexual minorities. The results of path analysis suggest that the relationship between compassion for others and attitudes toward people belonging to sexual minorities is mediated by intergroup trust. Fostering compassion could therefore play an important role in increasing trust and improving attitudes toward the people belonging to stigmatized minorities.