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Mendes AL, Coimbra M, Canavarro MC, Ferreira C. How do early affiliative memories explain body image shame? A 12-month longitudinal study in adolescent girls. Appetite 2024; 200:107576. [PMID: 38908406 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explain adolescent girls' body image shame across a 12- month longitudinal design, and its relationship with early parental memories of warmth and safeness and fear of receiving compassion from others. DESIGN AND METHODS Participants included 231 adolescent girls, who completed self-report measures at three different periods: baseline (W1), 6-month follow-up (W2), and 12-month follow-up (W3). Descriptive and correlational analyses were performed, and differences between participants at the different waves were explored through repeated measures ANOVA. A cross-lagged panel model tested the mediational effect of fears of receiving compassion on the association between early affiliative memories (W1) and body image shame (W3). RESULTS ANOVA results found significant differences throughout time in memories of warmth and safeness (tending to diminish) and in body image shame (tending to rise). Correlation analysis revealed that all variables were significantly associated in the expected directions, across the three waves. Finally, path analysis revealed that early affiliative parental memories (in W1) had a direct effect on body image shame (in W3), through the fear of receiving compassion from others (in W2), accounting for 85% of body image shame's variance (W3). CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that the lack of early affiliative memories often leads to the development of defensive mechanisms such as fears of receiving compassion from others which in turn can foster isolation and distant relationships, enhancing feelings of inferiority and inadequacy, which in female adolescents can emerge centered on body image - body image shame. This study further highlights the importance of prevention and intervention strategies based on compassion to specifically target fears of receiving compassion from others, in adolescent girls dealing with feelings of inferiority and shame regarding their body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Laura Mendes
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychological and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Maria Coimbra
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychological and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Cristina Canavarro
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychological and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Ferreira
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychological and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Portugal
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Luo X, Shen Y, Sun L, Qi X, Hong J, Wang Y, Che X, Lei Y. Investigating the effects and efficacy of self-compassion intervention on generalized anxiety disorders. J Affect Disord 2024; 359:308-318. [PMID: 38795780 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is the least successfully treated anxiety disorder. This clinical trial investigated the effects and efficacy of a novel self-compassion intervention in GAD. METHODS A total of 75 GAD patients were assigned to a self-compassion intervention group (n = 25), a mindfulness intervention group (n = 25), or a treat-as-usual group (n = 25). Patients in the two active groups received eight intervention sessions in two weeks in addition to usual treatment i.e., pharmacotherapy. Primary outcomes were anxiety and worry, assessed at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes included depression, sleep, as well as self-compassion and mindfulness. RESULTS Both the self-compassion and mindfulness intervention induced a more rapid decrease in anxiety and depression than pharmacological treatment alone with excellent response and remission rate. Self-compassion intervention also induced a more rapid improvement in sleep quality compared to mindfulness intervention and pharmacological treatment alone. We also presented a mechanism for the self-compassion intervention in which decreased anxiety led to improvement in sleep quality. There was also a higher pleasure, acceptance, and willingness to re-attend in the self-compassion compared to the mindfulness intervention. LIMITATIONS This study was single blinded and nonrandomized which may bring risks of bias. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we provided novel evidence that self-compassion intervention is an alternative psychotherapy for GAD with excellent response and acceptability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Luo
- School of Nursing, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310059, China
| | - Yonghui Shen
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310013, China
| | - Lijun Sun
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310013, China
| | - Xuejun Qi
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310013, China
| | - Jie Hong
- Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150036, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Centre for Cognition and Brain Disorders, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Xianwei Che
- Centre for Cognition and Brain Disorders, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; TMS Centre, Deqing Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Yi Lei
- Institute for Brain and Psychological Sciences, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu 610054, China.
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Monteiro B, Galhardo A, Senra H, Pinto-Gouveia J, Cunha M. Beyond fight or flight: The protective role of pre-pandemic meditation practice against anxiety and perceived stress. Stress Health 2024:e3440. [PMID: 38953863 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic generated distinct mental health challenges, characterised by stress and anxiety due to its unpredictable duration and continuous threat. This study examined the role of meditation practice on anxiety symptoms and perceived stress, considering co-variables such as self-compassion, acceptance, awareness, brooding, lockdown duration, and sociodemographic characteristics. The study used a longitudinal design and data were collected through online surveys from April 2020 to January 2021 (at four different time points) and included 238 participants from Portugal (165 had prior experience with meditation practices, 73 were non-meditators) with a mean age of 43.08 years (SD = 10.96). Linear mixed models revealed that over time, during the lockdown, the non-meditators group demonstrated a greater increase of anxiety symptoms (β = -0.226, SE = 0.06, p = 0.006) and perceived stress (β = -0.20, SE = 0.06, p = 0.004), whereas the meditators group showed non-significant (p > 0.05) variations in anxiety and stress symptoms during the same period of time. The effect of meditation on anxiety symptoms was moderated by sex, days of lockdown, self-compassion, and acceptance. The effect of meditation on perceived stress was moderated by sex, years of education, days of lockdown, and levels of awareness. Additionally, the study explored the potential predictive effect of different meditation session lengths, indicating that longer meditation practices offered greater protection against an increase in anxiety symptoms. These findings highlight the importance of cultivating self-regulation skills and investing in preventive mental health strategies to promote well-being and autonomy. Mental health professionals should prioritise educating communities on evidence-based practices like meditation and compassion exercises to enhance overall health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Monteiro
- Instituto Superior Miguel Torga, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Galhardo
- Instituto Superior Miguel Torga, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Hugo Senra
- Center for Research in Ceramics and Composite Materials (CICECO), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - José Pinto-Gouveia
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marina Cunha
- Instituto Superior Miguel Torga, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal
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Gallagher S, Raffone A, Aglioti SM. The pattern theory of compassion. Trends Cogn Sci 2024; 28:504-516. [PMID: 38734530 DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2024.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Concepts of empathy, sympathy and compassion are often confused in a variety of literatures. This article proposes a pattern-theoretic approach to distinguishing compassion from empathy and sympathy. Drawing on psychology, Western philosophy, affective neuroscience, and contemplative science, we clarify the nature of compassion as a specific pattern of dynamically related factors that include physiological, cognitive, and affective processes, relational/intersubjective processes, and motivational/action tendencies. We also show that the dynamic nature of the compassion pattern is reflected in neuroscientific findings, as well as in compassion practice. The pattern theory of compassion allows us to make several clear distinctions between compassion, empathy, and sympathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaun Gallagher
- Department of Philosophy, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA; School of Liberal Arts (SOLA), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| | - Antonino Raffone
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore M Aglioti
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Center for Life, Nano-, and Neuroscience (CLN2S), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
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Román-Calderón JP, Krikorian A, Ruiz E, Romero AM, Lemos M. Compassion and Self-Compassion: Counterfactors of Burnout in Medical Students and Physicians. Psychol Rep 2024; 127:1032-1049. [PMID: 36219581 DOI: 10.1177/00332941221132995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between self-compassion, compassion for others and Burnout in medical students and physicians. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted. Medicine students and general physicians from two Colombian cities participated (n = 359). The Compassion Scales and the Maslach Inventory were administered. An Exploratory Structural Equation approach was used for validating new measures and testing for relationships between latent variables. RESULTS Most participants were students (85.9%), mean age was 22 years (SD = 7), 55.2% were female, 62,6% dedicated more than 48 weekly hours to study or practice, while physicians had worked a mean of 10.34 years (SD = 8.67). Self-compassion and Compassion for others action subscales were validated, but engagement subscales of were not. Participant´s compassion actions for others and self-compassion actions are negatively related to depersonalization and emotional exhaustion, respectively. Additionally, compassion dimensions were positively associated with professional accomplishment. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that compassion and self-compassion actions inversely relate to different components of Burnout and could constitute protective factors against the stress of healthcare. Compassion and self-compassion training programs for medical students and physicians might be an alternative to avoid Burnout, diminishing physicians' depersonalization and emotional exhaustion while enhancing their professional accomplishment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alicia Krikorian
- Pain and Palliative Care Group, School of Health Sciences, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Erika Ruiz
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Montería, Colombia
| | - Ana M Romero
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Montería, Colombia
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Tendhar T, Marcotte MA, Bueno de Mesquita P, Saikia MJ. Online Video-Mediated Compassion Training Program for Mental Health and Well-Being of University Students. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1033. [PMID: 38786443 PMCID: PMC11120825 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12101033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
College students experiencing psychological distress have significantly greater negative emotions than students who practice compassionate thinking. We have developed Eight Steps to Great Compassion (ESGC), an innovative brief and no-cost online video training program about how to increase compassion among busy and young adult university students. To examine the effectiveness and benefits of the ESGC, a single-group pre-test-post-test quantitative design with undergraduate university students (N = 92; Mage = 20.39) evaluated its effects. The results from the post-test showed that the ESGC had a significant positive impact on increased feelings of compassion towards oneself, compassion for others, and the sense of personal well-being from the pre-test. The analysis of the PERMA-Profiler subscales also reflected a statistically significant increase in overall well-being and health and a decrease in negative emotions and loneliness. From the Post-Survey Lesson Feedback, 88% of the participants reported significant positive changes in themselves and the way that they live due to the program. These findings appear to show important implications for improving healthy minds and reducing negative emotions among university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thupten Tendhar
- Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA; (T.T.)
| | | | - Paul Bueno de Mesquita
- Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA; (T.T.)
| | - Manob Jyoti Saikia
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
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Bernabei L, Silvestrini C, Grimaldi LA, Piserchia V, Riggio F, Marino G, Valente D, Pompili E. Psychometric properties of the Quiet Ego Scale (iQES) within the Italian cultural context. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1348965. [PMID: 38784627 PMCID: PMC11112566 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1348965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The quiet ego indicates a more compassionate conception of self-identity that integrates others into the self by lowering the intensity of the ego and enhancing the awareness of the present moment. The Quiet Ego Scale (QES) is a 14-item self-report measure of quiet ego, and it is composed of the following four psychological domains: detached awareness, inclusive identity, perspective taking, and growth. The present study aimed to test the psychometric properties of the Quiet Ego Scale within the Italian cultural context (iQES). Methods A total of 160 Italian university students aged between 20 and 42 years, with a mean age of 22.85 years (SD = 3.41), completed the measures of the iQES and of other psychological dimensions. The psychometrics properties of iQES were assessed based on its internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and construct validity through comparisons with other correlated psychological measures. Results Analyses confirmed the psychometrics properties of iQES. As in previous studies, the quiet ego was positively associated with the indicators of resilience (p < 0.01), happiness (p < 0.05), self-esteem (p < 0.01), and psychological wellbeing (p < 0.01). Discussion The study discussed the possible uses of the iQES in the field of mental health, specifically focusing on improving adherence to psychological therapies and enhancing psychological and social well-being. The results indicated strong psychometric properties of the iQES in measuring the quiet ego construct. Our findings enrich the literature on the validity of the iQES and highlight the multidimensional nature of the quiet ego construct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bernabei
- Human Neuroscience Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Psychiatric Service of Diagnosis and Treatment, Mental Health Department and Addiction, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Roma 5, Colleferro, Italy
| | - Cristiana Silvestrini
- Mental Health Centre Tivoli, Mental Health Department and Addiction, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Roma 5, Tivoli, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Piserchia
- Mental Health Centre, Mental Health Department and Addiction, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Roma 5, Colleferro, Italy
| | - Francesco Riggio
- Psychiatric Service of Diagnosis and Treatment, Mental Health Department and Addiction, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Roma 5, Colleferro, Italy
| | - Giovanni Marino
- Psychiatric Service of Diagnosis and Treatment, Mental Health Department and Addiction, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Roma 5, Colleferro, Italy
| | - Donatella Valente
- Human Neuroscience Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Pompili
- Human Neuroscience Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Mental Health Centre, Mental Health Department and Addiction, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Roma 5, Colleferro, Italy
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Gilbert P. Threat, safety, safeness and social safeness 30 years on: Fundamental dimensions and distinctions for mental health and well-being. BRITISH JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38698734 DOI: 10.1111/bjc.12466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
In 1993, the British Journal of Clinical Psychology published my paper titled 'Defence and safety: Their function in social behaviour and psychopathology'. The paper highlights that to understand people's sensitivity to threat, we also need to understand their ability to identify what is safe. This paper offers an update on these concepts, highlighting distinctions that were implicit but not clearly defined at the time. Hence, the paper seeks to clarify distinctions between: (i) threat detection and response, (ii) safety and safety seeking, (iii) safeness and (iv) their social and non-social functions and forms. Threat detection and response are to prevent or minimize harm (e.g., run from a predator or fire). Safety checking relates to monitoring for the absence and avoidance of threat, while safety seeking links to the destination of the defensive behaviour (e.g., running home). Safety seeking also relates to maintaining vigilance to the appearance of potential harms and doing things believed to avoid harm. Threat-defending and safety checking and seeking are regulated primarily through evolved threat processing systems that monitor the nature, presence, controllability and/or absence of threat (e.g., amygdala and sympathetic nervous system). Safeness uses different monitoring systems via different psychophysiological systems (e.g., prefrontal cortex, parasympathetic system) for the presence of internal and external resources that support threat-coping, risk-taking, resource exploration. Creating brain states that recruit safeness processing can impact how standard evidence-based therapies (e.g., exposure, distress tolerance and reappraisal) are experienced and produce long-term change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Gilbert
- Centre of Compassion Research and Training, College of Health and Social Care Research Centre, University of Derby, Derby, UK
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Katan A, Kelly AC, Geller J. Self-compassion promotes positive mental health in women with anorexia nervosa: A two-week daily diary study. Eat Disord 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38679956 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2024.2346373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Despite the importance of positive mental health, little is known about its facilitators in people with eating disorders (EDs). Drawing on past research, we hypothesized that self-compassion might be a contributing factor to positive mental health in individuals with EDs. In a two-week daily diary study of women (N = 32) with anorexia nervosa, we investigated whether self-compassion levels-on average, on a given day, and from one day to the next-predicted social safeness (i.e. a sense of social connection and warmth) and positive affect, both indicators of positive mental health. Multilevel modeling revealed that, controlling for ED symptoms, (1) higher daily self-compassion, (2) increases in self-compassion from the previous day, and (3) higher trait self-compassion, were associated with greater positive affect and social safeness. Findings suggest that in addition to reducing ED symptoms in people with EDs, as documented by prior research, the cultivation of self-compassion might facilitate improved emotional and social well-being in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleece Katan
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Allison C Kelly
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Josie Geller
- Department of Psychiatry, St. Paul's Hospital Eating Disorders Program, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Erekson DM, Griner D, Beecher ME. Compassion Focused Therapy for Groups: Transdiagnostic Treatment for Turbulent Times. Int J Group Psychother 2024; 74:149-176. [PMID: 38442322 DOI: 10.1080/00207284.2024.2314278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
The concept of compassion has a centuries-long history as a pillar of philosophical and religious discourse as a response to human suffering. More recently, Paul Gilbert, the founder of Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) has explained compassion evolutionarily as a willingness to enter human suffering and a commitment to alleviating it. In the face of increased (and increasing) suffering in the world, compassion shows promise as both a societal and an individual intervention. In the following article, we discuss the background and theory of CFT, the empirical evidence for CFT delivered in a group therapy format, and present a standardized protocol. We then present an illustrative clinical vignette and discuss the current clinical and research limitations. We call for continued research to expand our understanding of CFT as well as its potential reach, and conclude by recommending CFT as an evidence-based group treatment that is particularly appropriate for the current global climate.
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Morte SD, Berti E, Lalli C, Modugno N, Morgante F, Schrag A, Makovac E, Ricciardi L. Compassionate mind training for people with Parkinson's disease: A pilot study and predictors of response. Eur J Neurol 2024:e16286. [PMID: 38520186 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People with Parkinson's disease (PD) often present with disabling neuropsychiatric symptoms. Compassionate mind training (CMT) is a psychological approach effective in reducing stress and promoting psychological well-being. Heart rate variability (HRV), a measure reflecting sympathovagal balance, has been associated with psychological well-being and a compassionate attitude. AIM To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of CMT in enhancing the quality of life and psychological well-being in PD patients. Additionally, we evaluated HRV as a physiomarker for assessing the CMT outcomes. METHODS Twenty-four PD patients participated in the study. A 6-week online CMT intervention was delivered on a weekly basis. At baseline and post-intervention patients completed questionnaires assessing depression, anxiety and quality of life. In a subsample of 11 patients, HRV was measured at baseline and post-intervention in three conditions: at rest, during stress and after 3 min of deep breathing. RESULTS The attendance rate was 94.3%. Quality of life and perceived stigma improved post-intervention as compared with baseline (p = 0.02 and p = 0.03 for PD Questionnaire-39 total score and Stigma subscore, respectively). After CMT, patients presented better physiological regulation to stress, as measured by higher HRV as compared with baseline (p = 0.005). Notably, patients who were more resilient to stress at baseline (less decrease in HRV during stress) experienced a more substantial reduction in anxiety and depression following CMT. CONCLUSIONS CMT is feasible and can improve quality of life and stigma in PD patients. HRV emerges as a promising physiomarker for predicting and measuring the outcomes of psychological interventions in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nicola Modugno
- ParkinZone Onlus, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neurology, IRCCS INM Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Francesca Morgante
- Neurosciences Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Anette Schrag
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Elena Makovac
- Neurosciences Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UK
- Centre for Neuroimaging Science, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Lucia Ricciardi
- Neurosciences Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
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Abstract
PURPOSE This paper outlines the theoretical and empirical basis for compassion focused therapy (CFT) for psychosis, the gaps in the current knowledge and research, as well as some of the challenges for addressing gaps. It will guide the direction of future work and the steps needed to develop and advance this approach. METHOD This paper reviews evidence of how evolutionary models such as social rank theory and attachment theory have greatly contributed to our understanding of psychosis and provide a clear rationale and evidence base for the mechanisms of change in CFT for psychosis. It reviews the evidence for outcomes of compassion training more generally, and early feasibility evaluations of CFT for psychosis. RESULTS The process evidence shows that people with psychosis have highly active social rank and threat systems, and the benefits of switching into attachment and care systems, which can support emotion regulation and integrative mind states. The outcomes evidence shows that compassion training impacts not only psychological outcomes, but also physiological outcomes such as neural circuits, immune system, and the autonomic nervous system. Within the psychosis field, outcomes research is still in the early days, but there are good indications of feasibility and a clear path forward for the next steps. CONCLUSIONS CFT for psychosis is an approach that integrates biopsychosocial processes, an integration that's evidenced across each aspect of the model, from theoretical foundations (evolution-informed) to interventions (e.g., body/breath training and relational techniques), to evaluation. Future RCTs are required to understand the effects on biopsychosocial outcomes for people with psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Heriot-Maitland
- Balanced Minds, London, UK
- King's College London, London, UK
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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13
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Kirby JN, Day J, Gilbert P. Social rank and compassion: How insecure striving, social safeness and fears of compassion mediate the relationship between masculinity, depression and anxiety. Psychol Psychother 2024. [PMID: 38308516 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Traditional masculinity norms displayed by men attempt to signal a dominance or 'toughness' to others; however, traditional masculine norms are associated with a range of mental health difficulties, including depression and anxiety. Based on social rank theory, we tested the mediating role of insecure striving, social safeness and fears of compassion on the relationship between masculinity, anxiety and depression. We also examined whether compassionate goals were negatively correlated with masculine norm adherence. DESIGN We used a cross-sectional survey design recruiting 844 men, aged 18-60 years (M = 34.0, SD = 14.4). RESULTS Our results replicated previous findings with masculine norms significantly associated with depression and anxiety. Extending on previous work, we found insecure striving, social safeness and fears of compassion fully mediated these relationships for anxiety and partially for depression. This relationship was strongest for the masculinity subtypes of self-reliance and emotional control. Compassionate goals were negatively associated with masculine norm adherence. CONCLUSIONS Social rank theory offers a helpful explanatory framework to understand the links between traditional masculinity and mental health, highlighting the importance of social safeness and insecure striving for men.
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Affiliation(s)
- James N Kirby
- Compassionate Mind Research Group, School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jamin Day
- Compassionate Mind Research Group, School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Lucre K, Ashworth F, Copello A, Jones C, Gilbert P. Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy for attachment and relational trauma: Engaging people with a diagnosis of personality disorder. Psychol Psychother 2024. [PMID: 38305507 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The research aimed to evaluate an exploratory Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy Programme and the impact on participants' experiences of self-criticism, usage of services and general wellbeing. Participants included patients with a history of complex attachment and relational trauma (A&RT), who might attract a diagnosis of personality disorder. DESIGN This study utilised a quasi-experimental non-randomised within subject controlled design for the evaluation of the efficacy of the programme. METHODS Participants were recruited from tertiary care services. The programme consisted of a 12-week Preparation and Engagement intervention (PEG) which was Compassionate Mind Training and Psychoeducation, followed by a 40-week Compassion Focused Trauma Group intervention. The cohort was then followed up after 12 months during which period they received treatment as usual. A comprehensive selection of self-report measures was administered at various points during the therapeutic process and following completion of the group interventions. RESULTS The results of the research showed that the provision of a long-term, slow-paced, Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy intervention, resulted in significant changes across all measures which were maintained at 12-month follow-up. These significant results were maintained following intention to treat and reliable change analyses. These data were supported by a significant reduction in service usage and a significant increase in engagement in employment and education. CONCLUSIONS This study has identified that within Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy, there is a therapeutic process of establishing group-based safeness as a necessary precursor to cultivating compassion and reworking early shame-based trauma memories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Lucre
- Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Alex Copello
- School of Psychology University of Birmingham & Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Chris Jones
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Paul Gilbert
- Centre for Compassion Research and Training, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, UK
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Ma J, Xiao Q. Relationship Between Self-Compassion and Compassion for Others: The Mediated Effect of Perceived Social Support and Psychological Resilience. Psychol Rep 2024:332941241226906. [PMID: 38214161 DOI: 10.1177/00332941241226906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Studies from individualistic cultural contexts have shown there were no or negative significant correlation between self-compassion and compassion (for others). However, there may be a closer association between them in a collectivism and Buddhism culture. This study randomly selected 441 college students in China and used measures of self-compassion, trait compassion (compassion for others), psychological resilience, and perceiving social support to investigate this relationship. The results showed a moderately positive correlation between self-compassion and compassion. Further chain-mediation analyses revealed that self-compassion not only directly predicted compassion for others but also indirectly influenced it through the mediating effects of perceiving social support and psychological resilience. The results of this study suggest that the quality of compassion may be significantly influenced by culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialan Ma
- Department of Psychology, Inner Mongolia Normal University, Huhehaote, China
| | - Qianguo Xiao
- Research center of Humanities and Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
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16
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Riebel M, Krasny-Pacini A, Manolov R, Rohmer O, Weiner L. Compassion focused therapy for self-stigma and shame in autism: a single case pre-experimental study. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1281428. [PMID: 38260795 PMCID: PMC10800541 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1281428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Exposure to public stigma can lead to the internalization of autism-related stigma (i.e., self-stigma), associated with negative health, occupational and social outcomes. Importantly, self-stigma is linked to shame and social isolation. Although elevated self-stigma has been reported in autistic adults, to the best of our knowledge, interventions designed to target this issue are lacking. Compassion is an effective way to reduce the emotional correlates of self-stigma (i.e., shame) and their impacts on mental health. However, no study has investigated whether compassion focused therapy (CFT) can effectively reduce self-stigma in autistic adults. The present study aims at investigating whether and how self-compassion improvement following CFT may reduce self-stigma and shame in an autistic individual. Methods A single case pre-experimental design (SCED) was used with weekly repeated measures during four phases: (i) pure baseline without any intervention (A), (ii) case conceptualization (A'), (iii) intervention (B) where CFT was delivered, (iv) follow-up without intervention (FU). The participant is a 46-year-old autistic man with high self-stigma and shame. Self-report measures of self-compassion and self-stigma and a daily idiographic measure of shame were used. Results There was a large increase in self-compassion between pure baseline (A) and the intervention phase (A'B) (Tau-U = 0.99), maintained at follow-up. Similarly, there was a moderate decrease of self-stigma (Tau-U = 0.32). In contrast, when we compared the whole baseline phase AA' (i.e., considering the conceptualisation phase as baseline) to the intervention (B), there was no change in self-stigma (Tau-U = -0.09). There was no change in self-stigma between the intervention (B) and follow-up (Tau-U = -0.19). There was a moderate decrease in daily shame reports between the baseline (AA') and the intervention (B) (Tau-U = 0.31) and a moderate decrease between the pure baseline (A) and intervention phase (A'B) (Tau-U = 0.51). Conclusion CFT was feasible for this autistic client and our results show that CFT led to the improvement of self-compassion. Changes on self-stigma measures were moderate. Self-stigma may need more time to change. Because self-stigma is involved in poorer social functioning and mental health in autistic adults, our results are promising and suggesting conducting more large-scale studies on CFT in autistic adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Riebel
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Cognitions (LPC, UR 4440), Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Centre d’Excellence STRAS&ND, Strasbourg, France
| | - Agata Krasny-Pacini
- Institut Universitaire de Réadaptation Clémenceau, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Inserm U1114, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Rumen Manolov
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Odile Rohmer
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Cognitions (LPC, UR 4440), Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Centre d’Excellence STRAS&ND, Strasbourg, France
| | - Luisa Weiner
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Cognitions (LPC, UR 4440), Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Centre d’Excellence STRAS&ND, Strasbourg, France
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Pôle de Psychiatrie, Santé Mentale et Addictologie, Strasbourg, France
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Cheli S, Goldzweig G, Chiarello F, Cavalletti V. Evolutionary systems therapy for paranoid personality disorder: A seven cases series. Bull Menninger Clin 2024; 88:61-80. [PMID: 38527104 DOI: 10.1521/bumc.2024.88.1.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Little is known about effective psychosocial treatments for paranoid personality disorder. This study explores the feasibility of a novel treatment, namely Evolutionary Systems Therapy, in supporting individuals diagnosed with paranoid personality disorder. Seven patients attended 10 months of individual therapy without receiving any psychopharmacological treatment. The primary outcome was the feasibility of the intervention, while the secondary outcomes were remission from the diagnosis and reliable changes in personality pathology and paranoid ideation. All recruited patients completed the intervention and did not report any adverse events. Six out of seven patients experienced remission from the diagnosis of paranoid personality disorder. All participants showed reliable changes in personality pathology and paranoid ideation, which were maintained at the 1-month follow-up. Further research is needed to confirm these encouraging results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Cheli
- PhD, is affiliated with the Department of Psychology, St. John's University, Rome, Italy, and the Center for Psychology and Health, Tages Charity, Florence, Italy
| | - Gil Goldzweig
- Academic College of Tel Aviv Yaffo, Tel Aviv, Israel
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18
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Liu J, Li JT, Zhou M, Liu HF, Fan YY, Mi S, Tang YL. Non-suicidal self-injury in adolescents with mood disorders and the roles of self-compassion and emotional regulation. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1214192. [PMID: 38179248 PMCID: PMC10764550 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1214192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective We aimed to investigate the characteristics and psychological mechanism of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in adolescents with mood disorders. We examined how self-compassion and emotional regulation affected NSSI and tested the mediating role of self-compassion in the link between emotional regulation and NSSI. Method We recruited outpatient and inpatient adolescent patients with bipolar and related disorders or depressive disorders (DSM-5), with a focus on NSSI. We also recruited healthy controls from the community. We collected demographic and clinical data. The Adolescent Self-injury Questionnaire, Self-compassion Scale (SCS), and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) were used to assess the frequency and severity of NSSI, level of self-compassion, and emotional regulation. Results In total, we recruited 248 adolescent patients with mood disorders (N = 196 with NSSI, and 52 without NSSI) and 212 healthy controls. NSSI was significantly associated with the female sex, lower levels of education and less use of cognitive reappraisal strategies, lower levels of self-warmth, and higher levels of self-coldness. Multivariate analysis of variance showed that there were significant differences in the scores of ERQ, cognitive reassessment score, and the scores of SCS among the three groups, but no statistical differences in expressive suppression score among the three groups. Self-warmth had a mediating effect between cognitive reappraisal and NSSI behavior. Conclusion NSSI is prevalent among adolescent patients with mood disorders in clinical settings, especially among girls and those with lower levels of education and less cognitive reappraisal strategies. More clinical attention is needed. Self-compassion and its factors may mediate the association between emotional regulation and NSSI. Clinical implications and future research directions were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-ting Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Man Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hui-feng Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang-yang Fan
- Faculty of Economics and Management, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si Mi
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-lang Tang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Mental Health Service Line, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, United States
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19
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Agrawal T, Schachner A. Aesthetic Motivation Impacts Judgments of Others' Prosociality and Mental Life. Open Mind (Camb) 2023; 7:947-980. [PMID: 38111474 PMCID: PMC10727777 DOI: 10.1162/opmi_a_00113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to infer others' prosocial vs. antisocial behavioral tendencies from minimal information is core to social reasoning. Aesthetic motivation (the value or appreciation of aesthetic beauty) is linked with prosocial tendencies, raising the question of whether this factor is used in interpersonal reasoning and in the attribution of mental capacities. We propose and test a model of this reasoning, predicting that evidence of others' aesthetic motivations should impact judgments of others' prosocial (and antisocial) tendencies by signaling a heightened capacity for emotional experience. In a series of four pre-registered experiments (total N = 1440), participants saw pairs of characters (as photos/vignettes), and judged which in each pair showed more of a mental capacity of interest. Distractor items prevented participants from guessing the hypothesis. For one critical pair of characters, both characters performed the same activity (music listening, painting, cooking, exercising, being in nature, doing math), but one was motivated by the activities' aesthetic value, and the other by its functional value. Across all activities, participants robustly chose aesthetically-motivated characters as more likely to behave compassionately (Exp. 1; 3), less likely to behave selfishly/manipulatively (Exp. 1; 3), and as more emotionally sensitive, but not more intelligent (Exp. 2; 3; 4). Emotional sensitivity best predicted compassionate behavior judgements (Exp. 3). Aesthetically-motivated characters were not reliably chosen as more helpful; intelligence best predicted helpfulness judgements (Exp. 4). Evidence of aesthetic motivation conveys important social information about others, impacting fundamental interpersonal judgments about others' mental life and social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adena Schachner
- Department of Psychology, University of California San Diego
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20
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Clark SL, Julien-Chinn F, Jones A, Jen S, Dowdy-Hazlett T, Hunt MK. "Without Compassion We Don't Have a Social Work Field": A Thematic Analysis Exploring Social Workers' Experiences with Compassion. JOURNAL OF EVIDENCE-BASED SOCIAL WORK (2019) 2023; 20:954-980. [PMID: 37470398 DOI: 10.1080/26408066.2023.2232799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Evidence establishing the importance of compassion in the context of social work practice is emerging. Compassion, stemming from the Latin words com and pati, means to suffer with. Given the proximity social workers have to vast experiences of suffering, compassion may play a central role in providing meaningful care to individuals, communities, and systems. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore social workers' definitions of and experiences with compassion. METHOD Participants included 12 social workers working across levels of practice in two Midwestern states in the United States. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews. RESULTS Thematic analysis demonstrated three themes present in the data. Consistent with previous conceptual scholarship, the findings illustrated that compassion is a central component of social work practice. Additionally, results from the study demonstrated that social workers find compassion to be an imperative component of ethical practice and suggested that both barriers to and facilitators of compassion are present across levels of social work practice. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION This study adds to the growing body of social work scholarship exploring compassion and highlights implications for the social work discipline across levels of practice to more overtly center compassion in education, practice, and policy. Further research is needed to better understand multilevel barriers to compassion and develop strategies for overcoming them. Moreover, additional research is needed to holistically understand how to leverage and build upon the facilitators of compassion identified by participants in order to foster compassionate social workers, social work organizations, and systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby L Clark
- University of Kentucky College of Social Work, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Francie Julien-Chinn
- University of Hawaii Manoa Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, Honolulu, Hawaii
| | - Aubrey Jones
- University of Kentucky College of Social Work, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Sarah Jen
- University of Kansas School of Social Welfare, Lawrence, Kansas
| | | | - Mary Kate Hunt
- University of Kentucky College of Social Work, Lexington, Kentucky
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21
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Cheli S, Cavalletti V, Hopwood CJ. Threatening Beliefs About Self and Others Moderate the Association Between Psychoticism and Psychological Distress. J Nerv Ment Dis 2023; 211:819-827. [PMID: 37738457 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Psychoticism is a multidimensional personality construct involving odd or eccentric behavior, quasi-psychotic experiences, mistrust, interpersonal detachment, and liability for schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, as well as significant distress. Recent advances suggest it can be understood as a dimension that is continuously distributed in the population, leading to questions about factors that contribute to distress and dysfunction among people with a schizotypal liability. We investigated in a large nonclinical sample of young adults whether associations between psychoticism and psychological distress would increase in the presence of threatening beliefs. In our study ( N = 2127), we found that the association between psychoticism and psychological distress is moderated by threatening beliefs including self-criticism, fear of compassion, and socially prescribed perfectionism. These results suggest that distress increases among people with schizotypal traits in the context of negative beliefs about self and others. We discuss implications for clinical practice and directions for further research.
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22
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Yang Z, Tse MMY, Chung JWY, Chong DYK, Wong TKS. Exploring the impact of a compassion-oriented training program on personal care workers in a nursing home: A mixed-methods pilot study. Geriatr Nurs 2023; 54:16-22. [PMID: 37703685 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
This pilot study aimed to explore the impact of a compassion-oriented training program on Personal Care Workers (PCWs) in a nursing home. A mixed-methods approach was used, including pre- and post-questionnaire surveys to measure changes in compassion, and in-depth interviews and daily diaries to explore PCWs' perceptions and experiences. A convenience sample of five female PCWs from a nursing home in Hong Kong participated in the study. The quantitative results showed that the PCWs experienced a decline in compassion after participating in the program. The qualitative data analysis identified three themes: (1) the multifaceted nature of compassion, (2) barriers and threats to compassion, and (3) transfer of skills at the workplace. Overall, These findings highlighted the complexity of implementing effective compassion training programs in nursing home, and emphasized the importance of recognizing the multifaceted nature of compassion and addressing barriers and threats to compassion in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Yang
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, No. 1 Sheung Shing Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Mimi Mun Yee Tse
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, No. 1 Sheung Shing Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Doris Yin Kei Chong
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, No. 1 Sheung Shing Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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23
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Hardman JR, Gleeson JFM, González‐Blanch C, Alvarez‐Jimenez M, Fraser MI, Yap K. The role of insight, social rank, mindfulness and self-compassion in depression following first episode psychosis. Clin Psychol Psychother 2023; 30:1393-1406. [PMID: 37438084 PMCID: PMC10946724 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Gaining awareness of psychosis (i.e., insight) is linked to depression, particularly in the post-acute phase of psychosis. Informed by social rank theory, we examined whether the insight-depression relationship is explained by reduced social rank related to psychosis and whether self-compassion (including uncompassionate self-responding [UCS] and compassionate self-responding [CSR]) and mindfulness buffered the relationship between social rank and depression in individuals with first episode psychosis during the post-acute phase. Participants were 145 young people (Mage = 20.81; female = 66) with first episode psychosis approaching discharge from an early psychosis intervention centre. Questionnaires and interviews assessed insight, depressive symptoms, perceived social rank, self-compassion, mindfulness and illness severity. Results showed that insight was not significantly associated to depression and thus no mediation analysis was conducted. However, lower perceived social rank was related to higher depression, and this relationship was moderated by self-compassion and, more specifically, UCS. Mindfulness was related to depression but had no moderating effect on social rank and depression. Results supported previous findings that depressive symptoms are common during the post-acute phase. The role of insight in depression for this sample is unclear and may be less important during the post-acute phase than previously considered. Supporting social rank theory, the results suggest that low perceived social rank contributes to depression, and reducing UCS may ameliorate this effect. UCS, social rank and possibly mindfulness may be valuable intervention targets for depression intervention and prevention efforts in the recovery of psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie R. Hardman
- School of Behavioural and Health SciencesAustralian Catholic UniversityStrathfieldNew South WalesAustralia
| | - John F. M. Gleeson
- Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health SciencesAustralian Catholic UniversityFitzroyVictoriaAustralia
| | - César González‐Blanch
- Centre for Youth Mental HealthUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Mental Health CentreUniversity Hospital “Marqués de Valdecilla”SantanderSpain
| | | | - Madeleine I. Fraser
- School of Behavioural and Health SciencesAustralian Catholic UniversityStrathfieldNew South WalesAustralia
- Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health SciencesAustralian Catholic UniversityFitzroyVictoriaAustralia
| | - Keong Yap
- School of Behavioural and Health SciencesAustralian Catholic UniversityStrathfieldNew South WalesAustralia
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Gilbert P, Basran JK, Plowright P, Gilbert H. Energizing compassion: using music and community focus to stimulate compassion drive and sense of connectedness. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1150592. [PMID: 37868612 PMCID: PMC10586219 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1150592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The last 20 years have seen considerable research on the nature and biopsychosocial impacts of compassion training on self and others. This training is usually focused on calming and slowing the mind and body and on individual imagery practices and mantras. This study explored the effects of three variations: 1. The impact of using energizing music to generate activation and "drive" for compassion; 2. To focus on imagining "breathing in and breathing out a white light or mist of compassion" to bring compassion to the world; and 3. While listening to energizing music, participants were guided to imagining connecting to the compassion (Sangha) community, imagining oneself as linking with others as part of communities seeking to help the world. Methods From approximately 1,600 members of the Compassionate Mind discussion list, participants were invited to take part in a new energizing focused self-practice study. The study involved listening to recorded guidance on the evolutionary model of compassion and the need to address the potentially harmful side of our nature. This was followed by a 4 1/2-min tonglen-informed guided practice of breathing in and breathing out compassion accompanied by energizing music. Forty-three participants completed several self-report scales measuring compassion orientation, wellbeing, social safeness, and positive affect before and following 2 weeks of practice. Participant experiences were recorded from 6 open explorative questions. Results Self-report measures taken before and following 2 weeks of practice revealed significant increases in self-compassion, compassion to others, openness to compassion from others, activated positive affect, safe positive affect, social safeness, and wellbeing, with the largest effect size relating to compassion for the self (d = -0.76). In addition, qualitative data revealed that the participants had experienced the practice as energizing, inspiring, and felt socially connected and that it had significant impacts on other aspects of their lives. Some participants noted that engaging with suffering also stimulated sadness. Conclusion This study found that pairing energizing music with breathing practices and specific compassion visualizations, focusing on the desire to bring compassion to the world and be part of a compassionate community, was well-accepted and had a range of significant positive impacts. This study indicates the potential value of exploring energizing in comparison to the more standard soothing and settling practices as ways of stimulating the biopsychosocial processes of compassion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Gilbert
- Centre for Compassion Research and Training, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, United Kingdom
- The Compassionate Mind Foundation, Derby, United Kingdom
| | - Jaskaran Kaur Basran
- Centre for Compassion Research and Training, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, United Kingdom
- The Compassionate Mind Foundation, Derby, United Kingdom
| | | | - Hannah Gilbert
- The Compassionate Mind Foundation, Derby, United Kingdom
- University of Roehampton, London, United Kingdom
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25
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Othman SY, Hassan NI, Mohamed AM. Effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions on burnout and self-compassion among critical care nurses caring for patients with COVID-19: a quasi-experimental study. BMC Nurs 2023; 22:305. [PMID: 37674145 PMCID: PMC10481566 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-023-01466-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Workloads in intensive care units (ICUs) have increased and extremely challenging ethical dilemmas were generated by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. ICU nurses experience high-stress levels and burnout worldwide. Egyptian studies on the effectiveness of mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) among ICU nurses are limited, although MBI has been shown to reduce stress and burnout. METHODS This quasi-experimental study included 60 nurses working in three hospitals in El-Beheira, Egypt. Participants were randomly allocated to one of the two groups: intervention or control (30 participants per group). The participants in the intervention group (MBI) received 8 MBI sessions, whereas the control group received no intervention. The Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), and the Self-Compassion Scale were used to assess the outcomes. Additionally, demographic and workplace data were collected. RESULTS The post-test score of emotional exhaustion after MBI for 8 weeks significantly decreased in the MBI group to 15.47 ± 4.44 compared with the control group with 32.43 ± 8.87 (p < 0.001). The total Self-Compassion Scale significantly increased because of the mindfulness sessions 94.50 ± 3.83 for the MBI group vs. 79.00 ± 4.57 for the control group (p < 0.001). The post-test score of the FFMQ significantly increased to 137.03 ± 5.93, while the control group's score decreased to 114.40 ± 7.44, following the MBI sessions (p < 0.001). As determined by Cohen's d test, the effect size of MBI training is quite large, on the three burnout scale dimensions (emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal achievement), as well as the total score of the mindfulness and self-compassion scales. CONCLUSION This study provides preliminary evidence that MBI sessions were effective in reducing emotional exhaustion and depersonalization and increasing levels of mindfulness and self-compassion among critical care nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Younes Othman
- Critical Care and Emergency Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Damanhour University, El-Beheira, Egypt
| | - Nagia I. Hassan
- Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Damanhour University, El-Beheira, Egypt
| | - Alaa Mostafa Mohamed
- Critical Care and Emergency Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Damanhour University, El-Beheira, Egypt
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26
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Poli A, Cappellini F, Sala J, Miccoli M. The integrative process promoted by EMDR in dissociative disorders: neurobiological mechanisms, psychometric tools, and intervention efficacy on the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1164527. [PMID: 37727746 PMCID: PMC10505816 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1164527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Dissociative disorders (DDs) are characterized by a discontinuity in the normal integration of consciousness, memory, identity, emotion, perception, bodily representation, motor control, and action. The life-threatening coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been identified as a potentially traumatic event and may produce a wide range of mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and DD, stemming from pandemic-related events, such as sickness, isolation, losing loved ones, and fear for one's life. In our conceptual analysis, we introduce the contribution of the structural dissociation of personality (SDP) theory and polyvagal theory to the conceptualization of the COVID-19 pandemic-triggered DD and the importance of assessing perceived safety in DD through neurophysiologically informed psychometric tools. In addition, we analyzed the contribution of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) to the treatment of the COVID-19 pandemic-triggered DD and suggest possible neurobiological mechanisms of action of the EMDR. In particular, we propose that, through slow eye movements, the EMDR may promote an initial non-rapid-eye-movement sleep stage 1-like activity, a subsequent access to a slow-wave sleep activity, and an oxytocinergic neurotransmission that, in turn, may foster the functional coupling between paraventricular nucleus and both sympathetic and parasympathetic cardioinhibitory nuclei. Neurophysiologically informed psychometric tools for safety evaluation in DDs are discussed. Furthermore, clinical and public health implications are considered, combining the EMDR, SDP theory, and polyvagal conceptualizations in light of the potential dissociative symptomatology triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Kirby JN, Hoang A, Ramos N. A brief compassion focused therapy intervention can help self-critical parents and their children: A randomised controlled trial. Psychol Psychother 2023; 96:608-626. [PMID: 36892093 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents can be highly self-critical of their own parenting, which can negatively impact parenting style and child outcomes. AIMS The aim of this randomised controlled trial (RCT) was to examine the efficacy of a brief 2-hour Compassion Focused Therapy intervention (CFT) for parents to determine if it can reduce self-criticism, improve parenting and improve child social, emotional and behavioural outcomes. MATERIALS & METHODS In total, 102 parents (87 mothers) were randomised to either a CFT intervention (n = 48) or waitlist control group (n = 54). Participants were measured at pre-, 2-week post-intervention and the CFT group again at 3-month follow-up. RESULTS At 2-week post-intervention parents in the CFT group compared to waitlist control had significantly reduced levels of self-criticism, significant reductions in child emotional and peer problems, but no changes in parental style. At 3-month follow-up, these outcomes improved, with self-criticism further decreasing, parental hostility and verbosity decreasing, as well as a range of childhood improvements. CONCLUSION The results from this first RCT evaluation of a brief 2-hour CFT intervention for parents show promise for not only improving how parents relate to themselves with self-criticism and self-reassurance, but also for improving parenting styles and child outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- James N Kirby
- Compassionate Mind Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - April Hoang
- Parenting and Family Support Centre, School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Norman Ramos
- Compassionate Mind Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Carrero I, Martínez de Ibarreta C, Valor C, Merino A. Does loving-kindness meditation elicit empathic emotions? The moderating role of self-discrepancy and self-esteem on guilt. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2023; 15:919-937. [PMID: 36358020 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Our understanding of the emotions elicited by loving-kindness meditation (LKM) at early stages of practice is limited, despite the influence that these emotions may have on later engagement. Past work suggests that LKM may elicit emotional ambivalence at early stages of the practice, but it is still unclear whether the content of LKM activates this ambivalence and who is more likely to experience it. Given the specific content of LKM, we defend that this meditation is likely to elicit empathetic emotions, both positive (compassion and gratitude) and negative (guilt), to a greater extent than an active control. Guilt is likely to be elicited by memories of incidents where naïve meditators were not able to experience compassion and/or by the difficulties in sending compassionate love to disliked others during the meditation. Furthermore, individuals with greater self-discrepancy and lower self-esteem are more likely to experience guilt. These hypotheses were tested in two experimental studies with community and student samples (n = 55 and n = 33, respectively) and using a brief intervention. The results support the hypotheses. These findings have implications for instructors of LKM, especially when organizing meditation practices with naïve meditators who should be aware of the potential negative emotions elicited by this meditation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Carrero
- School of Business Administration, Universidad Pontificia Comillas-ICADE, Alberto Aguilera, 23, Madrid, 28015, Spain
| | - Carlos Martínez de Ibarreta
- School of Business Administration, Universidad Pontificia Comillas-ICADE, Alberto Aguilera, 23, Madrid, 28015, Spain
| | - Carmen Valor
- IIT-School of Business Administration, Universidad Pontificia Comillas-ICADE, Alberto Aguilera, 23, Madrid, 28015, Spain
| | - Amparo Merino
- School of Business Administration, Universidad Pontificia Comillas-ICADE, Alberto Aguilera, 23, Madrid, 28015, Spain
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Di Bello M, Giudetti F, Palani S, Petrocchi N, McIntosh R, Ottaviani C. Modulatory effects of transcranial direct current stimulation of right insula on compassion motivation. Int J Clin Health Psychol 2023; 23:100362. [PMID: 36605771 PMCID: PMC9800245 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijchp.2022.100362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Compassion motivation is associated with increased heart rate variability (HRV), reflecting a calm and self-soothing physiological state. Recent work, however, suggests that this association is dynamic for the specific components of compassion. Objectives The present study adopted anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) targeting the right insula to see whether this would modulate the sensitivity to suffering and the commitment to engage in helpful actions (i.e., the components of compassion motivation). Method Ninety-seven healthy individuals underwent 15-min anodal or sham tDCS over the frontotemporal lobe, while watching a video inducing empathic sensitivity and performing a Redistribution Game. Tonic and phasic HRV, dispositional traits, and momentary affects were assessed. Results Compared to sham condition, anodal stimulation favored significant i) HRV reductions during the video and HRV increases during the Redistribution Game; ii) decreases in self-reported levels of negative affect and increases in positive affect during task when the latter was preceded by the video, without influencing altruistic behavior. Conclusions Anodal tDCS over the right insula may modulate the engagement phase of compassion by intensifying the psychophysiological sensitivity to signals of distress and protecting from being subjectively overwhelmed by it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Di Bello
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Giudetti
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sowmya Palani
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Petrocchi
- Department of Psychological and Social Sciences, John Cabot University, Rome, Italy
| | - Roger McIntosh
- Department of Psychology, Divisions of Health, Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Miami, FL, USA
| | - Cristina Ottaviani
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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Pinto AM, Luís M, Geenen R, Palavra F, Lumley MA, Ablin JN, Amris K, Branco J, Buskila D, Castelhano J, Castelo-Branco M, Crofford LJ, Fitzcharles MA, Häuser W, Kosek E, López-Solà M, Mease P, Marques TR, Jacobs JWG, Castilho P, da Silva JAP. Neurophysiological and Psychosocial Mechanisms of Fibromyalgia: A Comprehensive Review and Call for An Integrative Model. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023:105235. [PMID: 37207842 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Research into the neurobiological and psychosocial mechanisms involved in fibromyalgia has progressed remarkably in recent years. Despite this, current accounts of fibromyalgia fail to capture the complex, dynamic, and mutual crosstalk between neurophysiological and psychosocial domains. We conducted a comprehensive review of the existing literature in order to: a) synthesize current knowledge on fibromyalgia; b) explore and highlight multi-level links and pathways between different systems; and c) build bridges connecting disparate perspectives. An extensive panel of international experts in neurophysiological and psychosocial aspects of fibromyalgia discussed the collected evidence and progressively refined and conceptualized its interpretation. This work constitutes an essential step towards the development of a model capable of integrating the main factors implicated in fibromyalgia into a single, unified construct which appears indispensable to foster the understanding, assessment, and intervention for fibromyalgia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Pinto
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Rua do Colégio Novo, s/n, 3000-115 Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, University Clinic of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Rua Larga - FMUC, Pólo I - Edifício Central, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Psychological Medicine Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Rua Larga - FMUC, Pólo I - Edifício Central, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Mariana Luís
- Rheumatology Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Praceta Mota Pinto, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Rinie Geenen
- Department of Psychology, Utrecht University, Martinus J. Langeveldgebouw, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands; Altrecht Psychosomatic Medicine Eikenboom, Vrijbaan 2, 3705 WC Zeist, the Netherlands.
| | - Filipe Palavra
- Centre for Child Development, Neuropediatric Unit. Pediatric Hospital, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Avenida Afonso Romão, 3000-602 Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (i.CBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Mark A Lumley
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, 5057 Woodward Ave., Suite 7908, Detroit, MI 48202, USA.
| | - Jacob N Ablin
- Internal Medicine H, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, 6 Weizmann Street, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Israel.
| | - Kirstine Amris
- The Parker Institute, Department of Rheumatology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Nordre Fasanvej 57, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark.
| | - Jaime Branco
- Rheumatology Department, Egas Moniz Hospital - Lisboa Ocidental Hospital Centre (CHLO-EPE), R. da Junqueira 126, 1349-019 Lisbon, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Chronic Diseases Research Centre (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School, NOVA University Lisbon (NMS/UNL), Campo Mártires da Pátria 130, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Dan Buskila
- Ben Gurion University of the Negev Beer-Sheba, Israel.
| | - João Castelhano
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), ICNAS, Edifício do ICNAS, Polo 3, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal, Portugal.
| | - Miguel Castelo-Branco
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), ICNAS, Edifício do ICNAS, Polo 3, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal, Portugal.
| | - Leslie J Crofford
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
| | - Mary-Ann Fitzcharles
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University, 1650 Cedar Ave, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3G 1A4.
| | - Winfried Häuser
- Department Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Straße 22, 81675 Munich, Germany.
| | - Eva Kosek
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden; Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Marina López-Solà
- Serra Hunter Programme, Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona.
| | - Philip Mease
- Swedish Medical Center/Providence St. Joseph Health, Seattle, WA, USA; University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Tiago Reis Marques
- Psychiatric Imaging Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS), Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London SW7 2BU, UK; Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, Strand, London WC2R 2LS, UK.
| | - Johannes W G Jacobs
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, Netherlands.
| | - Paula Castilho
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Rua do Colégio Novo, s/n, 3000-115 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - José A P da Silva
- University of Coimbra, University Clinic of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Rua Larga - FMUC, Pólo I - Edifício Central, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Rheumatology Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Praceta Mota Pinto, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (i.CBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
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Yu H, Chen J, Dardaine B, Yang F. Moral barrier to compassion: How perceived badness of sufferers dampens observers' compassionate responses. Cognition 2023; 237:105476. [PMID: 37150155 DOI: 10.1016/j.cognition.2023.105476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Compassion has been theorized as a desirable prosocial emotion due to its potential to transcend arbitrary boundaries (e.g., race, physical distance) and motivate us to alleviate the suffering of all human beings. Our paper nevertheless examines a potential moral barrier to compassion--whether and how moral evaluations of the suffering and the sufferer hinder our compassion and prosocial motivation. In four pre-registered studies (total N = 421, within-participant design), we demonstrated that adult U.S. participants withheld their compassion and willingness to help when they perceived moral badness of the sufferer, even when the perceived moral badness did not directly cause the suffering. The effects were found in terms of diverse types of moral judgments, including the sufferers' immoral intention (e.g., harming another; Study 1), bad moral character (e.g., being a dishonest person; Study 2), and even mere associations with groups perceived as deserving of suffering based on moral status (Studies 3-4). Deservedness judgment--how much the sufferer was viewed as deserving the suffering--mediated the effect between moral judgment and compassionate responses. Importantly, participants judged withholding compassion based on moral deservedness as what should be done and what morally good people would do, suggesting that people hold a normative view of the tendency that might make it difficult to overcome. Our findings thus reveal moral judgment as a barrier that prevents us from alleviating the suffering of all human beings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbo Yu
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA.
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Bernadette Dardaine
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Psychology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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Santos L, Pinheiro MDR, Rijo D. The Effects of the Compassionate Mind Training for Caregivers on Professional Quality of Life and Mental Health: Outcomes from a Cluster Randomized Trial in Residential Youth Care Settings. CHILD & YOUTH CARE FORUM 2023:1-21. [PMID: 37360762 PMCID: PMC10154747 DOI: 10.1007/s10566-023-09749-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Background Psychological distress is highly noticeable among caregivers working in residential youth care (RYC). Maintaining and enhancing caregivers' professional mental health and quality of life is crucial to achieve effective outcomes in RYC. Nevertheless, trainings to protect caregivers' mental health are scarce. Considering the buffering effect over negative psychological outcomes, compassion training could be beneficial in RYC. Objective This study is part of a Cluster Randomized Trial examining the effects of the Compassionate Mind Training for Caregivers (CMT-Care Homes), looking at professional quality of life and mental health of caregivers working in RYC. Method The sample was composed of 127 professional caregivers from 12 Portuguese residential care homes (RCH). RCHs were randomly allocated at experimental (N = 6) and control group (N = 6). Participants were assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and 3 and 6-month follow-ups, answering to the Professional Quality of Life Scale and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. Program effects were tested using a two-factor mixed MANCOVA, with self-critical attitude and education degree as covariates. Results MANCOVA showed a significant Time × Group interaction effects (F = 1.890, p = .014; η p 2 = .050), with CMT-Care Homes participants presenting lower scores on burnout, anxiety, and depression at 3 and 6-months follow-ups, when compared with controls. Participants that received CMT-Care Homes considered the program useful to deal with pandemic threats and with youth during lockdowns. Conclusion This study shows the benefits of the CMT-Care Homes in helping professional caregivers reducing burnout, anxiety and depression, and dealing with pandemic challenges in RYC.Trial registration: This cluster randomized trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (TRN: NCT04512092) on 6th August 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Santos
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Rua do Colégio Novo, 3030-115 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria do Rosário Pinheiro
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Rua do Colégio Novo, 3030-115 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Daniel Rijo
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Rua do Colégio Novo, 3030-115 Coimbra, Portugal
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Santos L, Pinheiro MDR, Rijo D. Fostering an affiliative environment in residential youth care: A cluster randomized trial of a compassionate mind training program for caregivers enrolling youth and their caregivers. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 139:106122. [PMID: 36863203 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Affiliation has a positive role on well-being and human development. Most children and youth living in residential youth care (RYC) experienced maltreatment from significant others, becoming a particularly vulnerable group. Their complex needs require well trained caregivers who help them to heal and thrive. OBJECTIVE This cluster randomized trial sought to test the Compassionate Mind Training program for Caregivers (CMT- Care Homes) effectiveness on affiliative outcomes across time. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING A sample of 127 professional caregivers and 154 youth from 12 Portuguese residential care homes (RCH) participated on this study. METHODS RCHs were randomized to treatment (n = 6) and control (n = 6) groups. Caregivers and youth completed self-report measures at baseline, post-intervention, and 6-month follow-up on social safeness and emotional climate. Caregivers were also evaluated on compassion outcomes. RESULTS MANCOVA indicated large multivariate time X group effects. Univariate results suggested that caregivers from the treatment group showed improvements in compassion towards others and in self-compassion across time, while the control group gradually deteriorated in both variables. Youth and caregivers from the treatment group noticed a more soothing and safer RCH emotional climate, as well as feeling safer within relationships. At 6-month follow-up, improvements were retained by caregivers, but not by youth. CONCLUSIONS The CMT- Care Homes brings a new model to RYC, that represents a promising approach in promoting safe relationships and affiliative environments in RCHs. Supervision should be provided to monitor care practices and sustain change across time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Santos
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioural Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Rua do Colégio Novo, 3030-115 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Maria do Rosário Pinheiro
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioural Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Rua do Colégio Novo, 3030-115 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Daniel Rijo
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioural Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Rua do Colégio Novo, 3030-115 Coimbra, Portugal.
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Melton B, O’Connell-Sussman E, Lord J, Weiss MJ. Empathy and Compassion as the Radical Behaviorist Views it: A Conceptual Analysis. Behav Anal Pract 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s40617-023-00783-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
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Cheli S, Cavalletti V, Lysaker PH, Dimaggio G, Petrocchi N, Chiarello F, Enzo C, Velicogna F, Mancini F, Goldzweig G. A pilot randomized controlled trial comparing a novel compassion and metacognition approach for schizotypal personality disorder with a combination of cognitive therapy and psychopharmacological treatment. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:113. [PMID: 36803673 PMCID: PMC9942388 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04610-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schizotypal personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive pattern of maladaptive behavior that has been associated with the liability for schizophrenia. Little is known about effective psychosocial interventions. This pilot non-inferiority randomized controlled trial aimed to compare a novel form of psychotherapy tailored for this disorder and a combination of cognitive therapy and psychopharmacological treatment. The former treatment - namely, Evolutionary Systems Therapy for Schizotypy-integrated evolutionary, metacognitively oriented, and compassion focused approaches. METHODS Thirty-three participants were assessed for eligibility, twenty-four randomized on a 1:1 ratio, nineteen included in the final analysis. The treatments lasted 6 months (24 sessions). The primary outcome was change across nine measurements in personality pathology, the secondary outcomes were remission from diagnosis and pre-post changes in general symptomatology and metacognition. RESULTS Primary outcome suggested a non-inferiority of the experimental treatment in respect to control condition. Secondary outcomes reported mixed results. There was no significant difference in terms of remission, but experimental treatment showed a larger reduction of general symptomatology (η2 = 0.558) and a larger increase in metacognition (η2 = 0.734). CONCLUSIONS This pilot study reported promising results about the effectiveness of the proposed novel approach. A confirmatory trial on large sample size is needed to provide evidence about relative effectiveness of the two treatment conditions. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT04764708; Registration day 21/02/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Cheli
- School of Human Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy. .,Center for Psychology and Health (Centro Di Psicologia e Psicoterapia), Tages Charity (Tages Onlus), Via Della Torretta 14, 50137, Florence, Italy.
| | - Veronica Cavalletti
- Center for Psychology and Health (Centro Di Psicologia e Psicoterapia), Tages Charity (Tages Onlus), Via Della Torretta 14, 50137 Florence, Italy
| | - Paul H. Lysaker
- grid.280828.80000 0000 9681 3540Department of Psychiatry, Richard L Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, USA ,grid.257413.60000 0001 2287 3919Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA
| | - Giancarlo Dimaggio
- grid.512576.20000 0004 7475 2686Centro Di Terapia Metacognitiva Interpersonale, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Petrocchi
- grid.449441.80000 0004 1789 8806John Cabot University, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Chiarello
- Center for Psychology and Health (Centro Di Psicologia e Psicoterapia), Tages Charity (Tages Onlus), Via Della Torretta 14, 50137 Florence, Italy
| | - Consuelo Enzo
- Center for Psychology and Health (Centro Di Psicologia e Psicoterapia), Tages Charity (Tages Onlus), Via Della Torretta 14, 50137 Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Velicogna
- Center for Psychology and Health (Centro Di Psicologia e Psicoterapia), Tages Charity (Tages Onlus), Via Della Torretta 14, 50137 Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Mancini
- grid.440899.80000 0004 1780 761XGuglielmo Marconi University, Rome, Italy
| | - Gil Goldzweig
- grid.430432.20000 0004 0604 7651The Academic College of Tel Aviv Yaffo, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Day A, Newton D, Tamatea A. A Scoping Review of Family Focussed Interventions to Prevent Prison Violence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2023; 67:151-163. [PMID: 34114483 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x211023917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Violence is an ongoing concern for many people who live and work in correctional settings and yet relatively little is known about the effects of institutional violence prevention efforts. This paper reports the findings of a scoping review of recent research relevant to understanding the influence of one factor, contact with family, that potentially influences institutional violence in countries such as Aotearoa New Zealand where Indigenous peoples are over-represented in prison settings. A total of 15 different studies were identified that provided consistent evidence of an association between family contact and prison violence. The implications of this work for the development of evidence-based prison violence prevention strategies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Armon Tamatea
- University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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Maftei A. The indirect effect of compassion on katagelasticism: the mediatiang role of moral disengagement and the moderating effect of intolerance of uncertainty. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:26. [PMID: 36703187 PMCID: PMC9877495 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01063-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The junction between moral psychology, humor, and some specific personality variables (i.e., uncertainty intolerance and compassion toward others) has been a neglected field of study. The present research explored the role of moral disengagement and intolerance of uncertainty in the relationship between compassion and katagelasticism. The sample was formed by 763 adults aged 18 to 70 (M = 24.62, SD = 8.29, 73.9% women). The findings suggested significant negative associations between compassion and moral disengagement and positive correlations between katagelasticism, moral disengagement, and intolerance of uncertainty. Furthermore, moral disengagement mediated the link between compassion and katagelasticism, while intolerance of uncertainty moderated the link between compassion and moral disengagement. Significant gender differences were also suggested concerning all our study's primary variables, with women scoring higher in the compassion and intolerance of uncertainty and significantly lower than men in the moral disengagement and katagelasticism dimensions. The results are discussed regarding their theoretical and practical implications related to moral disengagement and the underlying personal factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Maftei
- grid.8168.70000000419371784Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Iasi, Romania
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Kucerova B, Levit-Binnun N, Gordon I, Golland Y. From Oxytocin to Compassion: The Saliency of Distress. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020183. [PMID: 36829462 PMCID: PMC9953150 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Compassion is a warm response of care and concern for those who are suffering, which drives individuals to devote their resources for the sake of others. A prominent neuroevolutionary framework grounds compassion in the neurobiology of the mammalian caregiving system. Accordingly, it has been suggested that the oxytocinergic system, which plays a central role in parental caregiving and bonding, provides the neurobiological foundation for compassion towards strangers. Yet, the specific role of oxytocin in compassion is far from clear. The current paper aims to target this gap and offer a theoretical framework that integrates the state-of-the-art literature on oxytocin with research on compassion. We suggest that oxytocin mediates compassion by enhancing the saliency of cues of pain and distress and discuss the plausible underlying neurobiological substrates. We further demonstrate how the proposed framework can account for individual differences in compassion, focusing on the effects of attachment on caregiving and support. The proposed framework integrates the current scientific understanding of oxytocin function with compassion-related processes. It thus highlights the largely ignored attentional processes in compassion and taps into the vast variability of responses in social contexts involving pain and suffering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Kucerova
- Psychology Department, Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Nava Levit-Binnun
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Reichman University, Herzliya 4610101, Israel
| | - Ilanit Gordon
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
| | - Yulia Golland
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Reichman University, Herzliya 4610101, Israel
- Correspondence:
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Matos M, McEwan K, Kanovský M, Halamová J, Steindl SR, Ferreira N, Linharelhos M, Rijo D, Asano K, Vilas SP, Márquez MG, Gregório S, Brito-Pons G, Lucena-Santos P, da Silva Oliveira M, de Souza EL, Llobenes L, Gumiy N, Costa MI, Habib N, Hakem R, Khrad H, Alzahrani A, Cheli S, Petrocchi N, Tholouli E, Issari P, Simos G, Lunding-Gregersen V, Elklit A, Kolts R, Kelly AC, Bortolon C, Delamillieure P, Paucsik M, Wahl JE, Zieba M, Zatorski M, Komendziński T, Zhang S, Basran J, Kagialis A, Kirby J, Gilbert P. Improvements in Compassion and Fears of Compassion throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multinational Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1845. [PMID: 36767212 PMCID: PMC9915071 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20031845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
During large-scale disasters, social support, caring behaviours, and compassion are shown to protect against poor mental health outcomes. This multi-national study aimed to assess the fluctuations in compassion over time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Respondents (Time 1 n = 4156, Time 2 n = 980, Time 3 n = 825) from 23 countries completed online self-report questionnaires measuring the flows of compassion (i.e., Compassionate Engagement and Action Scales) and fears of compassion toward self and others and from others (i.e., Fears of Compassion Scales) and mental health at three time-points during a 10-month period. The results for the flows of compassion showed that self-compassion increased at Time 3. Compassion for others increased at Time 2 and 3 for the general population, but in contrast, it decreased in health professionals, possibly linked to burnout. Compassion from others did not change in Time 2, but it did increase significantly in Time 3. For fears of compassion, fears of self-compassion reduced over time, fears of compassion for others showed more variation, reducing for the general public but increasing for health professionals, whilst fears of compassion from others did not change over time. Health professionals, those with compassion training, older adults, and women showed greater flows of compassion and lower fears of compassion compared with the general population, those without compassion training, younger adults, and men. These findings highlight that, in a period of shared suffering, people from multiple countries and nationalities show a cumulative improvement in compassion and reduction in fears of compassion, suggesting that, when there is intense suffering, people become more compassionate to self and others and less afraid of, and resistant to, compassion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Matos
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Kirsten McEwan
- Centre for Compassion Research and Training, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1G, UK
| | - Martin Kanovský
- Institute of Social Anthropology, Faculty of Social and Economic Sciences, Comenius University, 814 99 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Júlia Halamová
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Faculty of Social and Economic Sciences, Comenius University, 814 99 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Stanley R. Steindl
- Compassionate Mind Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia
| | - Nuno Ferreira
- Department of Social Sciences, University of Nicosia, Nicosia 2417, Cyprus
| | - Mariana Linharelhos
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Daniel Rijo
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Kenichi Asano
- Department of Psychological Counseling, Faculty of Psychology, Mejiro University, Tokyo 161-0032, Japan
| | - Sara P. Vilas
- Behavior, Emotions, and Health Research Group, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - Margarita G. Márquez
- Behavior, Emotions, and Health Research Group, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sónia Gregório
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Behavior, Emotions, and Health Research Group, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Brito-Pons
- Escuela de Psicología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Paola Lucena-Santos
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Margareth da Silva Oliveira
- Evaluation and Treatment in Cognitive and Behavioral Psychotherapies—Research Group (GAAPCC), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90619-900, Brazil
| | | | | | - Natali Gumiy
- Motivación Compasiva, Buenos Aires C1001, Argentina
| | | | - Noor Habib
- Neuroscience Department, Section of Psychiatry and Psychology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC), Jeddah 11564, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reham Hakem
- Neuroscience Department, Section of Psychiatry and Psychology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC), Jeddah 11564, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussain Khrad
- Neuroscience Department, Section of Psychiatry and Psychology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC), Jeddah 11564, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Alzahrani
- Neuroscience Department, Section of Psychiatry and Psychology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC), Jeddah 11564, Saudi Arabia
| | - Simone Cheli
- School of Human Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Nicola Petrocchi
- Department of Economics and Social Sciences, John Cabot University, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Elli Tholouli
- Center for Qualitative Research in Psychology and Psychosocial Well-Being, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece
| | - Philia Issari
- Center for Qualitative Research in Psychology and Psychosocial Well-Being, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece
| | - Gregoris Simos
- Department of Educational and Social Policy, University of Macedonia, 546 36 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Ask Elklit
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Russell Kolts
- Department of Psychology, Eastern Washington University, Cheney, WA 99004, USA
| | - Allison C. Kelly
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Catherine Bortolon
- Laboratoire Inter-Universitaire de Psychologie: Personnalité, Cognition et Changement Social, Grenoble Alpes University, 38400 Grenoble, France
- Centre Hospitalier Alpes Isère, C3R—Réhabilitation Psychosociale et Remédiation Cognitive, 38100 Grenoble, France
| | - Pascal Delamillieure
- CHU de Caen, Service de Psychiatrie Adulte, 14000 Caen, France
- UNICAEN, ISTS, GIP Cyceron, University of Normandy, 76000 Caen, France
| | - Marine Paucsik
- Laboratoire Inter-Universitaire de Psychologie: Personnalité, Cognition et Changement Social, Grenoble Alpes University, 38400 Grenoble, France
| | - Julia E. Wahl
- The Mind Institute Poland, 33-332 Warsaw, Poland
- Institute of Psychology, Department of General Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, 03-815 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mariusz Zieba
- Institute of Psychology, Department of General Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, 03-815 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mateusz Zatorski
- Institute of Psychology, Department of General Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, 03-815 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Komendziński
- Department of Cognitive Science, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Torún, Poland
- Neurocognitive Laboratory, Centre for Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Torún, Poland
| | - Shuge Zhang
- School of Human Sciences, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1G, UK
| | - Jaskaran Basran
- Centre for Compassion Research and Training, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1G, UK
| | - Antonios Kagialis
- Department of Social Sciences, University of Nicosia, Nicosia 2417, Cyprus
| | - James Kirby
- Compassionate Mind Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia
| | - Paul Gilbert
- Centre for Compassion Research and Training, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1G, UK
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40
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Alfonsson S, Winai E, Collin E, Isaksson M, Wolf-Arehult M. The Self-Compassion Scale-Short Form: Psychometric evaluation in one non-clinical and two clinical Swedish samples. Clin Psychol Psychother 2023. [PMID: 36648383 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-compassion has been defined as the ability to be with one's feelings of suffering in a warm and caring way. Research has shown a negative association between self-compassion and mental illness, and that low self-compassion can make psychotherapeutic effects less likely. The ability to measure a patient's self-compassion in a fast and reliable way is therefore important in investigating effects of psychotherapies. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Swedish version of the Self-Compassion Scale-Short Form (SCS-SF) in both non-clinical (NC) and clinical samples. METHODS Cross-sectional data were gathered in a NC community sample (n = 1,089), an eating disorder (ED) sample (n = 253) and a borderline personality disorder (BPD) sample (n = 151). All participants were asked to complete a number of questionnaires, including the SCS-SF, and 121 participants in the NC sample repeated the assessment after 2 weeks for test-retest analysis. RESULTS Confirmatory factor analyses supported the first-order model suggested in previous research. Good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.78-0.87) and test-retest reliability (intra-class correlation = 0.84) were demonstrated for the entire scale. Results also showed good convergent validity, demonstrating moderate negative associations between self-compassion and mental illnesses, as expected, and acceptable divergent validity, demonstrating weak positive associations between self-compassion and quality of life and mindfulness. DISCUSSION The correlations between the SCS-SF and the instruments used for validation were weaker in the clinical samples than the NC sample. This may be due to difficulties measuring these constructs or that the associations differ somewhat between different populations, which could warrant further research. The results added some support to the assumption that self-compassion may overlap with mindfulness yet still represents a distinct construct. CONCLUSIONS Analyses of the SCS-SF provided evidence of adequate to good psychometric properties, supporting use of the scale's total sum score and a first-order factor structure. This is in accordance with previous evaluations of the SCS-SF, suggesting that it is a reliable and time-efficient instrument for measuring a general level of self-compassion. This may be important when evaluating psychotherapy and investigating self-compassion and its influence on psychiatric illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Alfonsson
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ebba Winai
- Psychiatry Northwest, Region Stockholm, Sollentuna, Sweden
| | - Emelie Collin
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,The Eating Disorder Unit for Adults, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Martina Isaksson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Martina Wolf-Arehult
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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41
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Romaniuk M, Hampton S, Brown K, Fisher G, Steindl SR, Kidd C, Kirby JN. Compassionate mind training for ex-service personnel with PTSD and their partners. Clin Psychol Psychother 2023. [PMID: 36639932 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant issue for a substantial proportion of Australian ex-service personnel. In addition to the functional impact on individuals, PTSD can have a significant impact on intimate partner relationships. Research has demonstrated that practicing compassion and self-compassion may be an important component of psychological therapy for survivors of trauma, while also demonstrating benefits to intimate relationships. This pilot study aimed to investigate the utility of a Compassionate Mind Training intervention for ex-service personnel with PTSD and their partners. An uncontrolled, within-subjects, longitudinal design was utilized with assessment at pre-intervention, post-intervention and 3-month follow-up. Twenty-four participants attended 12 biweekly group sessions. Self-report measures of compassion, quality of life and psychological symptoms were administered at each time point. Findings demonstrated a significant reduction in fears of compassion and PTSD symptoms for ex-service personnel at 3-month follow-up and a reduction in depressive symptoms and increase in quality-of-life and social safeness at post-intervention. Additionally, significant reductions in anxiety, stress, external shame and self-criticism at 3-month follow-up were found, and couples reported significant increases in relationship satisfaction. Findings from this pilot study demonstrate promising outcomes, warranting further investigation in a larger randomized controlled trial of Compassionate Mind Training for ex-service personnel and their partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline Romaniuk
- Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Centre for Mental Health Research, School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Sarah Hampton
- Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kelly Brown
- Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gina Fisher
- Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stanley R Steindl
- Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chloe Kidd
- Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - James N Kirby
- Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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42
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Mandliya A, Pandey J. The development and validation of multidimensional workplace compassion scale: Linking its conceptualization and measurement. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1142309. [PMID: 37063527 PMCID: PMC10097966 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1142309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Organizational compassion is a powerful force that possesses the capability to move individuals and groups towards a common good. Research on organizational compassion or compassion in the workplace has discussed its potential to reduce individual suffering and enhance positive emotions, wellbeing, and dignity. The existing literature lacks a valid and reliable measure of workplace compassion that follows the recent conceptualization of organizational compassion. This research presents the development and validation of workplace compassion scale. The scale development process consisted of four studies with a total sample of 947 respondents. In study 1, we developed the items for the new measure, by considering the four-factor conceptualization of organizational compassion. Study 2 and 3 focuses on item purification and testing the model fit indices of the proposed scale. In study 4, we followed a time separated design to test the nomological network and discriminant validity of the workplace compassion scale. The final workplace compassion scale consists of 12 items that measure other-oriented/expressed compassion in the workplace. The scale is beneficial for providing impetus to future quantitative research in organizational compassion.
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43
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Cheli S. An evolutionary look at oddity and schizotypy: How the rise of social brain informs clinical practice. NEW IDEAS IN PSYCHOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.newideapsych.2022.100993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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44
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Veale D, Robins E, Thomson AB, Gilbert P. No safety without emotional safety. Lancet Psychiatry 2023; 10:65-70. [PMID: 36442491 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(22)00373-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This Personal View highlights how emotional safety is required for a person to keep themselves physically safe. We explain how trying to control behaviour to increase physical safety in the short term can carry the unintended consequence of reducing emotional safety, which might in turn result in higher levels of stress and hopelessness. We use examples from institutions with psychiatric inpatients to describe these processes. We argue that emotional and physical safety cannot be separated, and therefore that the absence of emotional safety compromises basic care either in an acute crisis or in the long term. Staff who fear being criticised, and so feel driven to take autonomy and responsibility away from patients, unwittingly undermine patients' experience of being empathically understood and supported, adding to patients' sense of emotional turmoil and lack of safety. We suggest that a change in culture and regulatory reform is required to bring psychiatric care more in line with the psychological needs of patients to achieve both physical and emotional safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Veale
- Centre for Anxiety Disorders and Trauma, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, The Maudsley Hospital, London, UK; Department of Psychology, The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Eleanor Robins
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alex B Thomson
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Northwick Park Hospital, London, UK
| | - Paul Gilbert
- Centre for Compassion Research and Training College of Health, University of Derby, Derby, UK
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45
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Pinto AM, Geenen R, Wager TD, Lumley MA, Häuser W, Kosek E, Ablin JN, Amris K, Branco J, Buskila D, Castelhano J, Castelo-Branco M, Crofford LJ, Fitzcharles MA, López-Solà M, Luís M, Marques TR, Mease PJ, Palavra F, Rhudy JL, Uddin LQ, Castilho P, Jacobs JWG, da Silva JAP. Emotion regulation and the salience network: a hypothetical integrative model of fibromyalgia. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2023; 19:44-60. [PMID: 36471023 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-022-00873-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances and other symptoms, and has a substantial socioeconomic impact. Current biomedical and psychosocial treatments are unsatisfactory for many patients, and treatment progress has been hindered by the lack of a clear understanding of the pathogenesis of fibromyalgia. We present here a model of fibromyalgia that integrates current psychosocial and neurophysiological observations. We propose that an imbalance in emotion regulation, reflected by an overactive 'threat' system and underactive 'soothing' system, might keep the 'salience network' (also known as the midcingulo-insular network) in continuous alert mode, and this hyperactivation, in conjunction with other mechanisms, contributes to fibromyalgia. This proposed integrative model, which we term the Fibromyalgia: Imbalance of Threat and Soothing Systems (FITSS) model, should be viewed as a working hypothesis with limited supporting evidence available. We hope, however, that this model will shed new light on existing psychosocial and biological observations, and inspire future research to address the many gaps in our knowledge about fibromyalgia, ultimately stimulating the development of novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Pinto
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, University Clinic of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Psychological Medicine Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rinie Geenen
- Department of Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Altrecht Psychosomatic Medicine Eikenboom, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - Tor D Wager
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Mark A Lumley
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Winfried Häuser
- Department Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Eva Kosek
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jacob N Ablin
- Internal Medicine H, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel
| | - Kirstine Amris
- The Parker Institute, Department of Rheumatology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Jaime Branco
- Rheumatology Department, Egas Moniz Hospital - Lisboa Ocidental Hospital Centre (CHLO-EPE), Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Chronic Diseases Research Centre (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School, NOVA University Lisbon (NMS/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Dan Buskila
- Ben Gurion University of the Negev Beer-Sheba, Beersheba, Israel
| | - João Castelhano
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), ICNAS, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miguel Castelo-Branco
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), ICNAS, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Leslie J Crofford
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Mary-Ann Fitzcharles
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marina López-Solà
- Serra Hunter Programme, Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mariana Luís
- Rheumatology Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Tiago Reis Marques
- Psychiatric Imaging Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS), Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Philip J Mease
- Swedish Medical Center/Providence St. Joseph Health, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Filipe Palavra
- Centre for Child Development, Neuropediatric Unit, Paediatric Hospital, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (i.CBR), Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jamie L Rhudy
- Department of Psychology, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Lucina Q Uddin
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Paula Castilho
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Johannes W G Jacobs
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - José A P da Silva
- University of Coimbra, University Clinic of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Rheumatology Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal.
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (i.CBR), Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal.
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46
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Prescott DS. Self-compassion in Treatment and with Ourselves. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2023; 25:7-11. [PMID: 36454501 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-022-01401-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSEOF REVIEW This article explores the emerging role of compassion in the treatment of individuals who have caused sexual harm. It also brings focus to the importance of self-care and self-compassion for the practitioners who do this work. RECENT FINDINGS Early studies into interventions designed to prevent offending behavior focused more on risk reduction than client resilience and well-being. The good lives model shifted focus to rehabilitation centered on clients' strengths. Recent critiques highlight the importance of compassion in treatment and self-compassion for practitioners working in this field. Compassion plays a fundamental role in therapy with clients who have caused sexual harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Prescott
- Continuing Education Center, Safer Society Foundation, Brandon, VT, USA. .,Continuing Excellence, LLC, PO Box 134, East Middlebury, VT, 05740, USA.
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Matos M, Petrocchi N, Irons C, Steindl SR. Never underestimate fears, blocks, and resistances: The interplay between experiential practices, self-conscious emotions, and the therapeutic relationship in compassion focused therapy. J Clin Psychol 2022. [PMID: 36563306 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Experiential practices are a core component of compassion focused therapy (CFT). Throughout the treatment process, the client's engagement with these practices may become blocked, resulting in a rupture in the therapeutic relationship. In these instances, the interplay between these experiential practices and the therapeutic relationship becomes an essential focus of therapy to repair the rupture, re-engage the client in the therapeutic process, and proceed with the CFT treatment plan. This paper presents the case of a man diagnosed with social anxiety disorder, with the presence of shame-based self-criticism, treated via 12 sessions of CFT. CFT was proceeding well until certain embodiment practices and chair work were introduced, at which point the client refused to continue and became disengaged in the session. The process of repair and re-engagement will be discussed from the perspective of this interplay between experiential exercises and therapeutic relationships. Implications for CFT practice and clinical recommendations will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Matos
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculdade de Psicologia e Ciências da Educação, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nicola Petrocchi
- Department of Economics and Social Sciences, John Cabot University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Stanley R Steindl
- Compassionate Mind Research Group, School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Kariyawasam L, Ononaiye M, Irons C, Kirby SE. Exploring the Cross-cultural Applicability of a Brief Compassionate Mind Training: a Study Comparing Sri Lankan and UK People. Mindfulness (N Y) 2022; 14:429-447. [PMID: 36575653 PMCID: PMC9782273 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-022-02041-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Compassionate Mind Training (CMT) is a therapeutic approach proven to be effective for reducing distress and increasing well-being in clinical and non-clinical populations. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of a short-term, online version of the CMT on compassion, distress, and well-being in a cross-cultural, non-clinical sample of Sri Lankan and UK people. Method A randomized controlled trial with pre-, post-measurements, and a 2-week follow-up was conducted using CMT (n = 21 Sri Lankan, n = 73 UK) and wait-list control (n = 17 Sri Lankan, n = 54 UK) groups. The intervention effects were investigated using a series of repeated-measures ANOVAs using intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses. Results The 2-week CMT was effective in increasing all aspects of compassion in both Sri Lankan and UK people. In addition, some cross-cultural similarities and differences (in the factors affecting compassion) were present in the improvements following CMT between the two countries, which were maintained at a 2-week follow-up. Conclusion This study provides promising evidence for the efficacy and cross-cultural applicability of CMT for reducing distress and increasing well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lasara Kariyawasam
- University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, University Road, Southampton, SO17 1BJ UK
| | | | | | - Sarah E. Kirby
- Academic Unit of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Self-Compassion Correlates of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Youth: A Comparison of Two Self-Compassion Measures. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9121930. [PMID: 36553373 PMCID: PMC9777121 DOI: 10.3390/children9121930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Self-compassion is considered as a protective psychological construct that would shield against the development of emotional problems. The aim of the present study was to compare the 'protective nature' of two measures of self-compassion: the Self-Compassion Scale for Youth (SCS-Y) and the Sussex-Oxford Compassion for the Self Scale (SOCS-S). METHODS Eighty-seven adolescents aged 12 to 18 years completed both self-compassion measures as well as scales of anxiety and depression symptoms. RESULTS SCS-Y and SOCS-S scores were positively correlated, and for both measures it was generally found that higher levels of self-compassion were associated with lower levels of emotional symptoms. However, the uncompassionate self-responding scales of the SCS-Y correlated positively with anxiety and depression symptoms and hence can better be seen as indices of vulnerability. Regression analyses suggested that a positive attitude toward oneself, as measured by the self-kindness scale of the SCS or its SOCS-S equivalent 'feeling for the person suffering' is particularly relevant as a buffer against emotional problems. CONCLUSION The protective nature of self-compassion can be established by both measures. Caution is advised with the use of the uncompassionate self-responding scales included in the SCS-Y as they appear to measure vulnerability rather than protection.
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Exploring the Relationship Between Compassion and Attachment in Individuals with Mental Health Difficulties: A Systematic Review. JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PSYCHOTHERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10879-022-09573-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe objective of the review was to explore the relevance of the relationship of compassion and attachment to mental health. APAPsycInfo, APAPsycArticles, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Social Science Database, Sociology Database, PTSDpubs, Pubmed, and Web of Science were searched from their inception until November 9, 2021. Peer-reviewed empirical studies exploring the compassion–attachment relationship in individuals with mental health difficulties through outcome measures were included. Studies were excluded if non-empirical, with non-clinical/subclinical samples, in a language other than English and if they did not consider the compassion–attachment relationship. Risk of bias was assessed through The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and the Downs and Black Checklist. Seven eligible studies comprising 4839 participants were identified, with low to moderate risk of overall bias. Findings indicated a more straightforward relationship between self-compassion and secure attachment and confirmed the relevance of compassion and attachment to psychological functioning. Limitations concerned study design, the use of self-report measures, and low generalisability. While suggesting mechanisms underpinning compassion and attachment, the review corroborates the role of secure attachment and self-compassion as therapeutic targets against mental health difficulties. This study is registered on PROSPERO number CRD42021296279.
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