Shame as a Central Mechanism Linking Self-Compassion and Self-Worth to Posttraumatic Growth in Limb Amputation

Objective: Acquired disabilities such as limb loss can be experienced as traumatic stressors that disrupt daily functioning, body image, and psychological well-being. Understanding the psychological factors that facilitate positive adaptation is essential for improving outcomes following amputation. This study examined whether shame mediates the associations between self-compassion, self-worth, and posttraumatic growth (PTG) among individuals with limb amputations. Method: Participants completed the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, the Self-Compassion Scale–Short Form, the Self-Worth Feeling Questionnaire, and the Internalized Shame Scale, along with a demographic survey. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted using SPSS and AMOS 23.0. Results: Self-compassion and self-worth showed significant direct paths to shame and PTG, and shame significantly predicted PTG. Mediation analyses indicated that shame mediated the relationships between self-compassion and PTG, and between self-worth and PTG. Conclusion: Shame appears to be a key psychological mechanism linking self-compassion and self-worth to posttraumatic growth in limb amputation. Interventions that cultivate self-compassion and self-worth while reducing internalized shame may support adaptive adjustment and enhance positive psychological outcomes following limb loss.