The purpose of this study was to examine the moderated mediating effect of self-compassion through non-mentalization on the relationship between negative affect intensity and depression.

A total of 289 college students participated in this study by completing the following questionnaires: Affect Intensity Measure, Mentalization Questionnaire, Self-Compassion Scale, and The Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale.

First, all variables in this study were statistically significant correlation. Second, partial mediation effect of non-mentalization on the relationship between negative affect intensity and depression were found. Third, moderation effect of self-compassion on the relationship between non-mentalization and depression were found also. Finally, self-compassion moderated the mediating effect of negative affect intensity on depression through non-mentalization.

These results suggest that it is important to enhance students’ level of mentalization and self-compassion in order to alleviate their depression. effectively.