Neglected side of romantic relationships among college students: Breakup initiators are at risk for depression

Objective This study aimed to explore the mediating role of self-compassion and self-forgiveness among college students who initiated a romantic breakup. Backgrounds The focus of research on romantic relationship breakups is typically on the rejected partner, while the initiator (responsible or rejector) of the breakup is neglected. To fully understand the romantic relationship breakup, we must look at this event as a whole. Method College students across eight universities (N = 464) who sought treatment for depression at university psychological service centers after initiation of a romantic breakup were referred for possible inclusion in the research. Of these referred students, 347 (women = 68%, mean age = 22.62 +/- 3.69 years, range: 18-35) fulfilled the inclusion criteria and completed a battery of questionnaires (Enright Self-Forgiveness Inventory, Self-Compassion Scale-Short Form, Breakup Distress Scale, and Beck Depression Inventory-II). Structural equation modeling was used to evaluate the hypothesized mediation model. Results We found a strong association between breakup distress and depressive symptoms among romantic breakup initiators mediated by self-compassion and self-forgiveness. Self-compassion influenced the mediating role of self-forgiveness between breakup distress and depressive symptoms (R-2 = 58%). Conclusion and implications The findings suggest that college students who initiate a romantic breakup are at risk for depression despite the reason for or time since the breakup. Thus, their suffering and pain need to be acknowledged. When initiators choose to be self-compassionate after a breakup, it may promote self-forgiveness as a path toward emotional healing.