Self-criticism and anxiety in the general population

Abstract

Aim of the study: Self-criticism is the personality trait of negative self-evaluation and is a transdiagnostic feature of many psychopathologies. The research and theoretical models of self-criticism have described its central role in the development and maintenance of depression. However, the relationship between self-criticism and anxiety, a core feature of many prevalent mental disorders in the general population, has yet to be adequately explored. The present study investigated the associations between self-criticism, anxiety, and worry, after accounting for the effects of five-factor personality traits. Methods: Adults (N=343) recruited through an online platform completed standardized questionnaires that assess for self-criticism, anxiety, and worry symptoms, as well as five-factor personality traits. Demographic data were collected using a short self-designed questionnaire. Results: Findings revealed that self-criticism was positively and strongly associated with anxiety and worry symptoms, independent of the five-factor personality traits. Also, neuroticism was positively associated with self-criticism, anxiety, and worry, and extraversion and conscientiousness were negatively associated with anxiety and worry. Discussion: The nature of the association between self-criticism and anxiety remains unclear. Perhaps, in response to the excessive negative emotions and self-evaluation that self-criticism generates, the individual may develop maladaptive coping behaviours that produce anxiety. Conclusions: Overall, participants who were self-critical were more likely to be anxious, suggesting the need for further investigation into the directionality and underlying mechanisms of this relationship.