1
|
Ramos‐Vidal I, Ruíz É. The role of self-compassion and compassion toward others in burnout syndrome in a sample of medical students. Psych J 2024; 13:113-123. [PMID: 37905913 PMCID: PMC10917092 DOI: 10.1002/pchj.692] [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: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Burnout produces negative effects on academic performance, and, in turn, feelings of inefficiency that are detrimental to students' psychosocial well-being. The aim of this research is to determine the effects that self-compassion and compassion toward others have on various burnout dimensions in a sample of medical students. A total of 235 medical students (61.7% women) aged between 16 and 32 years old (M = 19.82; SD = 2.37) belonging to a Colombian university participated. A cluster analysis to segment the population according to burnout was carried out along with nonparametric contrasts to identify differences in the levels of self-compassion and compassion toward others between each profile. A series of regression analyses was designed to find out how each type of compassion was associated with burnout on each profile. The cluster analysis allowed us to identify three profiles. The low-involvement profile (n = 51) is characterized by low depersonalization, intermediate levels of emotional exhaustion and personal accomplishment and exhibits low levels of self-compassion and compassion fatigue compared with the other profiles. The positive-adaptation profile (n = 104) is characterized by low depersonalization levels, intermediate degrees of emotional exhaustion and high levels of personal accomplishment and exhibits the highest levels of self-compassion and compassion fatigue compared with the other profiles. The high-demand profile (n = 104) is characterized by intermediate depersonalization levels, medium-high levels of emotional exhaustion and high levels of personal accomplishment and exhibits intermediate levels of self-compassion and low levels of compassion fatigue. Establishing profiles based on burnout allows students to be segmented and for precise knowledge to be acquired about the effects that both types of compassion have on the dimensions of burnout.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Ramos‐Vidal
- Departamento de Psicología SocialUniversidad de Sevilla, Facultad de PsicologíaSevillaSpain
| | - Érika Ruíz
- Facultad de PsicologíaUniversidad Pontificia BolivarianaMonteriaColombia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Workplace humour, compassion, and professional quality of life among medical staff. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2158533. [PMID: 37052083 PMCID: PMC9793908 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2022.2158533] [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: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Professional quality of life pertains to the balance between compassion fatigue and compassion satisfaction. In recent years, there was an increase in compassion fatigue among medical staff due to the pandemic, all over the world, while compassion satisfaction was reported at a moderate level.Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between workplace humour and professional quality of life among medical staff, as well as the moderating role of compassion in this relationship.Method: The sample consisted of 189 participants (Mage = 41.01; SD = 9.58). Of the total sample, 57.1% are physicians, 32.3% are nurses and 6.9% are clinical psychologists. The participants completed scales measuring compassion, workplace humour, and professional quality of life.Results: The results showed that self-enhancing and affiliative humour were positively related, while self-defeating humour was negatively related to compassion satisfaction. Burnout and secondary traumatic stress were negatively related to self-enhancing humour and positively related to self-defeating humour. Compassion moderated the relationship between affiliative humour and secondary traumatic stress.Conclusions: Encouraging coping strategies based on adaptive humour (i.e. affiliative humour, self-enhancing) and raising awareness about negative humour strategies (i.e. self-defeating) could contribute to an increase of quality of life among healthcare providers. Another conclusion derived from the present study sustains that compassion is a valuable personal resource positively related to compassion satisfaction. Compassion also facilitates the relationship between affiliative humour and low secondary traumatic stress. Thus, encouraging compassionate skills could be beneficial for the optimal professional quality of life.
Collapse
|
3
|
Lyon TR, Galbraith A. Mindful Self-Compassion as an Antidote to Burnout for Mental Health Practitioners. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2715. [PMID: 37893789 PMCID: PMC10606131 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202715] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this correlational study was to explore the relationship between levels of self-compassion and burnout for currently practicing mental health practitioners (MHPs) in the United States. All professionals are vulnerable to burnout based on various types of organizational stressors, but burnout is of particular concern for health care service providers who may need to adopt a stance of detachment, or emotional distance, as relief from intense workloads, with clients. The data were collected through an online survey. Regression analysis found that scores from Neff's Self-Compassion Scale were a significant negative predictor of levels of MHP burnout, as assessed by Schaufeli et al.'s Burnout Assessment Tool, p < 0.001. The implication of this finding is that cultivating self-compassion appears to be a pragmatic self-care strategy for MHPs to mitigate the negative effects of burnout. More educational and occupational training in self-compassion practices as self-care should be provided to help protect the physical and emotional well-being of MHPs. The deleterious systemic effects of burnout make MHP self-care an ethical issue, along with the need to identify protective factors, prevention, and treatment of burnout.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne Galbraith
- Marriage and Family Therapist, Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Velasco J, Sanmartín FJ, Gálvez-Lara M, Cuadrado F, Moriana JA. Psychological Effects of Professional Exposure to Trauma and Human Suffering: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:1656-1676. [PMID: 35202557 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221074314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decades, a growing interest has emerged toward understanding the impact that the exposure to human suffering produces in mental health professionals, leading to the identification of three constructs: vicarious traumatization (VT), compassion fatigue (CF), and secondary trauma (ST). However, little is known about how these conditions affect psychologists. A systematic review and a meta-analysis were conducted to examine the evidence about the effects of occupational exposure to trauma and suffering in studies that included psychologists among their samples. Fifty-two studies were included comprising 10,233 participants. Overall, the results showed that most professionals did not experience relevant distress due to their work, yet some of them developed clinically significant symptoms (i.e., PTSD). However, solid conclusions could not be drawn due to the numerous methodological difficulties found in this research field (i.e., group heterogeneity, lack of comparison groups, and conceptual overlap). Thus, it is necessary to further investigate this topic with scientific rigor to understand these stressors and develop evidence-based interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith Velasco
- Department of Psychology, University of Cordoba, Spain
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Spain
- Reina Sofia University Hospital, Spain
| | | | - Mario Gálvez-Lara
- Department of Psychology, University of Cordoba, Spain
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Spain
- Reina Sofia University Hospital, Spain
| | - Fátima Cuadrado
- Department of Psychology, University of Cordoba, Spain
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Spain
- Reina Sofia University Hospital, Spain
| | - Juan A Moriana
- Department of Psychology, University of Cordoba, Spain
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Spain
- Reina Sofia University Hospital, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Geller J, Fernandes A, Kelly AC, Samson L, Srikameswaran S. Collaborative care in eating disorders treatment: exploring the role of clinician distress, self-compassion, and compassion for others. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:57. [PMID: 37024928 PMCID: PMC10080953 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00741-y] [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: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Collaborative care is described as showing curiosity and concern for patient experiences, providing choices, and supporting patient autonomy. In contrast, in directive care, the clinician has authority and the patient is expected to adhere to a treatment plan over which they have limited influence. In the treatment of eating disorders, collaborative care has been shown to be more acceptable and produce better outcomes than directive care. Despite widespread patient and clinician preference for collaborative care, it is common for clinicians to be directive in practice, resulting in negative patient attitudes toward treatment and poor adherence. There is a need to understand factors which contribute to its use. PURPOSE This study examined the contribution of clinicians' experience of distress and how they relate to themselves and others in times of difficulty (self-compassion and compassion for others), to their use of collaborative support. METHOD Clinicians working with individuals with eating disorders from diverse professional backgrounds (N = 123) completed an online survey. RESULTS Whereas clinician distress was not associated with use of collaborative or directive support behaviours, self-compassion and compassion for others were. Regression analyses indicated that compassion for others was the most important determinant of collaborative care. DISCUSSION Relating to their own and others' distress with compassion was most important in determining clinicians' use of collaborative support. Understanding how to cultivate conditions that foster compassion in clinical environments could promote the delivery of collaborative care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josie Geller
- St. Paul's Hospital Eating Disorders Program, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
| | - Avarna Fernandes
- St. Paul's Hospital Eating Disorders Program, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Allison C Kelly
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Lindsay Samson
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Suja Srikameswaran
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kotera Y, Jackson JE, Kirkman A, Edwards AM, Colman R, Underhill A, Jackson JG, Baker D, Ozaki A. Comparing the Mental Health of Healthcare Students: Mental Health Shame and Self-compassion in Counselling, Occupational Therapy, Nursing and Social Work Students. Int J Ment Health Addict 2023:1-18. [PMID: 36817984 PMCID: PMC9924877 DOI: 10.1007/s11469-023-01018-w] [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: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor mental health of healthcare students is a cause for concern in many universities. Though previous research has identified mental health shame and self-compassion as critical in this student group, how these variables differ across different healthcare disciplines remains to be evaluated. Healthcare students (n = 344; counselling, occupational therapy, social work and nursing) completed measures regarding these variables. MANOVA and regression analyses were performed. (1) Counselling and nursing students were more depressed than occupational therapy students; (2) nursing students were more anxious than occupational therapy and social work students; (3) occupational therapy students had more positive attitudes towards mental health than the others; and (4) nursing students worried about their own reputation associated with their family more than counselling students. Self-compassion was the strongest predictor of mental health in all groups; however, the effect sizes varied: largest in nursing and smallest in social work students. Findings will help inform effective interventions for students in each healthcare discipline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Kotera
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2TU Nottinghamshire UK
| | - Jessica E. Jackson
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Ann Kirkman
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Ann-Marie Edwards
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Rory Colman
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Ann Underhill
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Jessica G. Jackson
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Denise Baker
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Akihiko Ozaki
- Medical Governance Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Breast Surgery, Jyoban Hospital of Tokiwa Foundation, Fukushima, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Brugnera A, Zarbo C, Scalabrini A, Compare A, Mucci C, Carrara S, Tasca GA, Hewitt P, Greco A, Poletti B, Esposito R, Cattafi F, Zullo C, Lo Coco G. Attachment anxiety, reflective functioning and well-being as predictors of burn-out and psychological distress among psychotherapists: A longitudinal study. Clin Psychol Psychother 2023. [PMID: 36610037 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2823] [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: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to longitudinally investigate the effects of individual's factors on subsequent burn-out/psychological distress in a sample of mental health practitioners, testing if higher attachment anxiety and avoidance and lower reflective functioning (i.e., certainty and uncertainty of mental states) and well-being at baseline may lead to a greater psychological distress and burn-out 1 year later. METHODS The sample consisted of 40 experienced psychotherapists (females: 72.5%; mean age: 47.40 ± 9.48 years) who completed a battery of questionnaires at baseline and 1 year later. Statistical analyses were conducted with Bayesian multiple linear regressions. RESULTS Greater attachment anxiety and certainty about mental states and lower individual's well-being at baseline predicted greater burn-out 1 year later. Similarly, greater attachment anxiety and lower individual's well-being at baseline predicted psychological distress at 1 year follow-up. Of note, uncertainty of mental states and avoidant attachment were not associated with outcomes. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that the levels of burn-out and psychological distress among psychotherapists may be alleviated with interventions targeting attachment insecurity, specific aspects of reflective functioning (i.e., certainty about mental states) and well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agostino Brugnera
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Cristina Zarbo
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Andrea Scalabrini
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Angelo Compare
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Clara Mucci
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Silvia Carrara
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | | | - Paul Hewitt
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrea Greco
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Barbara Poletti
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosy Esposito
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Francesco Cattafi
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Claudio Zullo
- U.O.C. of Clinical Psychology, Local Health Authority 1 of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianluca Lo Coco
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Crego A, Yela JR, Riesco-Matías P, Gómez-Martínez MÁ, Vicente-Arruebarrena A. The Benefits of Self-Compassion in Mental Health Professionals: A Systematic Review of Empirical Research. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2022; 15:2599-2620. [PMID: 36133626 PMCID: PMC9482966 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s359382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of cultivating self-compassion is an often neglected issue among mental health professionals despite the risks to occupational well-being present in psychological care, such as burnout or compassion fatigue. In this context, this literature review has a twofold aim. Firstly, to contribute to raising awareness of the benefits of self-compassion among professionals, based on empirical research findings. Secondly, to coherently organize the available evidence on this topic, which to date appears scattered in a variety of articles. A systematic search on the APA PsycInfo database was conducted, and 24 empirical studies focused on the topic of the benefits of self-compassion in mental health professionals were finally selected. Concerning their methods, only 4 of the selected studies used experimental or quasi-experimental designs, 14 were cross-sectional studies, 3 presented qualitative research, and 3 were literature reviews. The research, regardless of methods used, points mainly to the benefits of self-compassion on the therapists’ mental health and well-being; prevention of occupational stress, burnout, compassion fatigue, and secondary traumatization as well as improvement of therapeutic competencies and professional efficacy-related aspects. In the review, self-compassion appeared as a process that could explain the benefits (eg on burnout) of cultivating other skills (eg mindfulness). To further explore this point, an additional review included 17 studies focused on the effects of mindfulness or compassion-based interventions on therapists’ self-compassion. In conclusion, our work joins those who have recommended the inclusion of self-compassion trainings in the curricula of mental health professionals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Crego
- Department of Psychology, Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - José Ramón Yela
- Department of Psychology, Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Pablo Riesco-Matías
- Department of Psychology, Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - María-Ángeles Gómez-Martínez
- Department of Psychology, Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Clinical and Health Psychology Service, Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Aitor Vicente-Arruebarrena
- Department of Psychology, Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Clinical and Health Psychology Service, Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ondrejková N, Halamová J. Prevalence of compassion fatigue among helping professions and relationship to compassion for others, self-compassion and self-criticism. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:1680-1694. [PMID: 35133041 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Helping professionals are at high risk of being affected by the negative aspects of helping such as compassion fatigue. To date, no study has provided a comprehensive overview of compassion fatigue and compared the prevalence among different helping professions. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence and differences in compassion fatigue among different helping professions. We also wanted to explore the relationship between compassion, self-compassion, self-criticism and compassion fatigue. METHODS Six hundred and seven participants working in the helping professions were recruited. The sample consisted of 102 nurses, 44 doctors, 57 paramedics, 39 home nurses, 66 teachers, 103 psychologists, 40 psychotherapists and coaches, 76 social workers, 39 priests and pastors and 41 police officers. The data were collected using an online questionnaire battery measuring levels of compassion, self-compassion, self-criticism, compassion fatigue and compassion satisfaction. RESULTS We found significant differences in compassion fatigue levels among various helping professions. No large differences were found in the compassion and self-compassion levels exhibited by professionals with medium versus low compassion fatigue scores. However, participants with higher levels of compassion fatigue scored higher in self-criticism. Self-criticism was found to be the best predictor of compassion fatigue. The effect of profession on compassion fatigue as mediated by self-criticism and self-compassion was significant. CONCLUSIONS Based on the results, we recommend designing programs to combat compassion fatigue that teach helping professionals to better manage their work time and workload (hours per week with clients/patients) and learn healthier inner talk (less self-critical and more self-compassionate).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natália Ondrejková
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Faculty of Social and Economic Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Júlia Halamová
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Faculty of Social and Economic Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dunkley‐Smith AJ, Reupert AE, Sheen JA. 'It's like they're learning what it is for the very first time': Clinician's accounts of self-compassion in clients whose parents experience mental illness. Psychol Psychother 2022; 95:738-753. [PMID: 35475532 PMCID: PMC9545345 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Individuals who have a parent with mental illness are more likely to experience mental illness than their contemporaries. As such, it is valuable to examine potential psychological resources, which might assist these individuals to experience good mental health throughout their lifespan. We aimed to learn how clinicians perceive self-compassion, and how it can be incorporated into therapy with clients who have parents with mental illness. DESIGN A qualitative interview design was employed to explore clinicians' perspectives and experiences. METHODS Eight mental health clinicians experienced in working with clients who have parents with mental illness were interviewed. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to establish themes representing the clinicians' perspectives and experiences of incorporating self-compassion into their work. RESULTS This study found that clinicians were generally positive about incorporating self-compassion into interventions with clients who are children of parents with mental illness. The participants noted barriers to self-compassion for these clients, namely a poor sense of self and divided loyalty between self and family. Participants recommended taking time and care, building rapport and involving others when cultivating self-compassion with those who have parents with mental illness. CONCLUSIONS This group of clinicians viewed self-compassion as relevant to clients whose parents have mental illness and believe it can be introduced therapeutically in various ways. Suggestions are made for tailoring self-compassion training to the needs and experiences of this group.
Collapse
|
11
|
Drobinska K, Oakley D, Way C, Jackson M. "You Forget to Apply It to Staff": A Compassion-Focused Group for Mental Health Inpatient Staff. An Exploration of the Barriers to Attendance. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2022; 43:798-807. [PMID: 35647807 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2022.2074177] [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: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study explored the feasibility and acceptability of an experiential compassion-focused group intervention for mental health inpatient staff. Findings demonstrated that although participants found sessions enjoyable, and reported a number of benefits, the group attrition was high. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore issues related to group dropout. Thematic analysis highlighted overarching systemic challenges to attendance, and five key themes emerged: The Nature of the Ward; Slowing Down Is Not Allowed; It is Not in Our Nature; Guilt & Threat; We Are Not Important. Clinical implications, limitations and practice recommendations to support group attendance are also addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Drobinska
- North Wales Clinical Psychology Programme, School of Psychology, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - David Oakley
- Adult Mental Health Psychology Services, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, North Wales, UK
| | - Carrie Way
- Adult Mental Health Psychology Services, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, North Wales, UK
| | - Mike Jackson
- North Wales Clinical Psychology Programme, School of Psychology, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Keyes J, Yankouskaya A, Panourgia C. Self-compassion, coping strategies and gender differences in psychology, counselling and psychotherapy practitioners during COVID-19: Lessons learnt. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2022; 23:CAPR12574. [PMID: 36247723 PMCID: PMC9537790 DOI: 10.1002/capr.12574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Effective coping strategies can protect against the adverse effects of stress. This study investigated self-compassion's ability to predict approach and avoidance coping in psychology, counselling and psychotherapy practitioners (PCPPs) during COVID-19, and whether this differed between genders. To date, no research has investigated this relationship, despite positive associations being drawn in other populations. Three hundred and nineteen PCPPs completed an online survey including the Brief COPE and Self-Compassion Short Form. Self-compassion significantly predicted greater use of approach coping and reduced use of avoidance coping. The predictive ability of self-compassion was slightly better in female practitioners. Self-judgement arose as a prominent subscale of self-compassion across genders, increasing both approach and avoidance coping. Implications for future research and practice are discussed, concerning barriers to self-compassion and the requirement of therapeutic programmes and psychoeducation as a prerequisite for effective coping strategies in the PCPP population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Keyes
- Department of PsychologyBournemouth UniversityPooleUK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Marshman C, Hansen A, Munro I. Compassion fatigue in mental health nurses: A systematic review. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2022; 29:529-543. [PMID: 34874593 DOI: 10.1111/jpm.12812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Compassion fatigue is the result of the unique stressors inherent in caregiving work, leading to a loss of compassion in clinical practice that may result in negative outcomes for mental healthcare consumers. Compassion fatigue has clear emotional and physical costs and significant impacts on staff recruitment and retention. WHAT THE PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: This review is the first to evaluate the quantitative literature on compassion fatigue in mental health nurses. Research on compassion fatigue in mental health nurses does not accurately account for the unique care relationship between nurse and consumer. Competency-based education, strong mental health nurse leadership, positive organizational cultures, clinical supervision and reflection alongside individual self-care strategies may mitigate compassion fatigue. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR FUTURE PRACTICE?: Resources are urgently needed for education and workforce development that addresses compassion fatigue in mental health nurses. Interventions addressing the physical, cognitive and emotional demands of care work are needed to ensure mental health nurses have the capability to provide sustainable compassionate care to consumers. ABSTRACT: Introduction Although compassionate care is an essential component of mental health nursing, understandings of the impact of compassion fatigue is poorly understood. Aims/Questions To examine and synthesize available data on the prevalence of compassion fatigue within mental health nurses and consider what variables impact compassion fatigue. Method A search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, Emcare, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL and grey literature for articles published between 1992 and February 2021 was conducted. Data were extracted from articles meeting inclusion criteria and integrated using narrative synthesis. Results Twelve articles were included. Prevalence of compassion fatigue ranged from low to high. Variables were identified that may mitigate the risk of compassion fatigue. Strong leadership and positive workplace cultures, clinical supervision, reflection, self-care and personal well-being may protect mental health nurses against compassion fatigue. Discussion Future research is needed on mental health nurses lived experience of compassion fatigue and their understandings of compassion. Implications for Practice Interventions should focus on increasing awareness of compassion fatigue and building individual and organizational resilience. Both organizations and individuals should be aware of the role they play in maintaining the capacity and capability for mental health nurses to provide sustainable and compassionate mental healthcare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Marshman
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Australian College of Mental Health Nurses, Clayton, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Alison Hansen
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Australian College of Mental Health Nurses, Clayton, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Ian Munro
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Australian College of Mental Health Nurses, Clayton, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rohlf VI, Scotney R, Monaghan H, Bennett P. Predictors of Professional Quality of Life in Veterinary Professionals. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 49:372-381. [PMID: 34102096 DOI: 10.3138/jvme-2020-0144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Working in the veterinary profession can be both stressful and rewarding. High workloads, long work hours, emotionally charged interactions with clients, and exposure to animal suffering and participation in euthanasia place many at risk of compassion fatigue, which then threatens their professional quality of life (ProQOL). Despite this risk, many veterinary professionals choose to stay within the profession. This study explores personal and organizational factors predicting compassion satisfaction (CS), burnout, and secondary traumatic stress (STS) in veterinary professionals, and the extent to which these aspects of ProQOL are linked with intentions to leave the profession. Regression results show that personal factors accounted for 31.1% of the variance in CS, 45.3% in burnout, and 33.8% in STS. Organizational factors significantly accounted for 33.3% of the variance in CS, 47.9% in burnout, and 32.7% in STS. Together, ProQOL accounted for 28.9% and 16.0% of the variance in intentions to leave one's current role and to leave the profession altogether, respectively. These results suggest that both personal and organizational factors play a role in veterinary professionals' ProQOL and highlight the importance of promoting CS and managing burnout and STS for the purpose of fostering veterinary staff well-being and retention.
Collapse
|
15
|
Bentley PG. Compassion practice as an antidote for compassion fatigue in the era of COVID‐19. THE JOURNAL OF HUMANISTIC COUNSELING 2022. [PMCID: PMC9015224 DOI: 10.1002/johc.12172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Empathy is a critical factor in counseling, yet the process of empathizing with suffering can have a detrimental impact on counselor well‐being. In the wake of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), the need for strategies to ameliorate this potential negative impact is even more apparent. This article explores compassion practices to meet that need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paige G. Bentley
- Counseling and Well‐Being Services, Department of Psychiatry Wake Forest University School of Medicine Winston‐Salem North Carolina USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Heinonen E, Orlinsky DE, Willutzki U, Rønnestad MH, Schröder T, Messina I, Löffler-Stastka H, Hartmann A. Psychotherapist Trainees' Quality of Life: Patterns and Correlates. Front Psychol 2022; 13:864691. [PMID: 35401345 PMCID: PMC8988184 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.864691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
While psychotherapists are trained to improve their clients' quality of life, little work has examined the quality of life experienced by psychotherapist trainees themselves. Yet their life satisfactions and stresses would plausibly affect both their ability to learn new skills and conduct psychotherapy. Therefore, in the Society for Psychotherapy Research Interest Section on Psychotherapist Development and Training study, we investigated the patterns of self-reported life quality and their correlates in a multinational sample of 1,214 psychotherapist trainees. A comprehensive questionnaire was used at the outset of trainings to assess trainees' professional background, current life situation, personal characteristics, family background, and social and national origin. The findings indicated 54.3% of trainees' lives could be characterized as fortunate or happy (i.e., experiencing great life satisfaction and not much stress), whereas 14.3% could be characterized as clearly distressed or troubled (i.e., experiencing great life stress and not much satisfaction). The strongest correlates of high life stress, a contributor to poor life quality, were economic insecurity, self-protectiveness, and attachment-related anxiety in relationships, and economic or psychological hardship in childhood. In turn, greater wellbeing was most strongly associated with a warm and open interpersonal style, being married, having sufficient economic means, and material and emotional security in childhood. While the results indicate the majority of therapists experience a relatively good quality of life, the findings also suggest potential targets for increasing trainees' life quality when it may be deficient, such as those on a societal level (e.g., availability of low-cost student loans), training program level (e.g., promoting supportive supervision, positive between-trainee relationships and group collaboration), and individual level (e.g., personal therapy and learning self-care), in order to promote effective learning and therapy practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erkki Heinonen
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- *Correspondence: Erkki Heinonen,
| | - David E. Orlinsky
- Department of Comparative Human Development, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Ulrike Willutzki
- Department of Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Schröder
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Armin Hartmann
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Panourgia C, Wezyk A, Ventouris A, Comoretto A, Taylor Z, Yankouskaya A. Individual factors in the relationship between stress and resilience in mental health psychology practitioners during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Health Psychol 2021; 27:2613-2631. [PMID: 34875921 PMCID: PMC9483698 DOI: 10.1177/13591053211059393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Utilising an online survey, this study aimed to investigate the
concurrent effects of pre-pandemic and COVID-19 stress on resilience
in Mental Health Psychology Practitioners (MHPPs)
(n = 325), focussing on the
mediation effects of specific individual factors. Optimism, burnout
and secondary traumatic stress, but not coping strategies,
self-efficacy, compassion satisfaction, or self-compassion, mediated
both the relationship between pre-pandemic stress and resilience and
COVID-19 stress and resilience. Increased job demands caused by the
pandemic, the nature and duration of COVID-19 stress may explain this
finding. Training and supervision practices can help MHPPs deal with
job demands under circumstances of general and extreme stress.
Collapse
|
18
|
Warren MA, Warren MT. The EThIC Model of Virtue-Based Allyship Development: A New Approach to Equity and Inclusion in Organizations. JOURNAL OF BUSINESS ETHICS : JBE 2021; 182:783-803. [PMID: 34840369 PMCID: PMC8606279 DOI: 10.1007/s10551-021-05002-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
As organizations take on grand challenges in gender equality, anti-racism, LGBTQ+ protections and workplace inclusion, many well-intentioned individuals from dominant groups (e.g., cisgender men, Caucasian, heterosexual) are stepping forward as allies toward underrepresented or marginalized group members (e.g., cisgender women, People of Color, LGBTQ+ identified employees). Past research and guidance assume an inevitable need for external motivation, reflected in the 'business case' for diversity and in top-down policies to drive equity and inclusion efforts. This qualitative study explored internal motivations in the form of morally motivated virtues of 25 peer-nominated exemplary allies serving in leadership positions. In-depth life/career story interviews were used to identify the virtues that supported their allyship journeys. Findings demonstrated that they tapped into several virtues that served distinct functions in a 4-stage allyship development process: Stage 1-Energizing psychological investment (compassion, fairness); Stage 2-Thinking through allyship-relevant complexities (intellectual humility, perspective-taking, wisdom); Stage 3-Initiating action (prudence, moral courage, honesty); Stage 4-Committing to allyship (perseverance, patience). We call this the 'EThIC model of virtue-based allyship development.' This study has implications for theory and research on a virtue-based approach to diversity, equity and inclusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meg A. Warren
- College of Business and Economics, Western Washington University, PH 23, 516 High Street, Bellingham, WA 98225 USA
| | - Michael T. Warren
- Human Early Learning Partnership, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Davies SM, Sriskandarajah S, Staneva AS, Boulton HCM, Roberts C, Shaw SH, Silverio SA. Factors influencing ‘burn‐out’ in newly qualified counsellors and psychotherapists: A cross‐cultural, critical review of the literature. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Siân M. Davies
- School of Psychology Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool UK
- Centre for Women's Mental Health The University of Manchester Manchester UK
- Department of Psychological Sciences University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | | | | | | | - Chelsey Roberts
- Therapist and Independent Researcher Tucson USA
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health University College London London UK
| | | | - Sergio A. Silverio
- Department of Psychological Sciences University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health University College London London UK
- School of Life Course Sciences King’s College London London UK
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Márquez MA, Galiana L, Oliver A, Sansó N. The impact of a mindfulness-based intervention on the quality of life of Spanish national police officers. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:1491-1501. [PMID: 33125800 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Police officers belong to a profession with a high risk of stress, burnout and compassion fatigue. Incorporating mindfulness practices into the health and occupational-risk prevention programs run by the national police forces in Spain could provide a new approach to reducing stress and enhancing the psychological and emotional balance of these officers. METHODS A 7-week mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) was conducted in a group of 20 national police officers in Mallorca (Spain). Mindfulness, self-compassion, burnout, compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction and perceived stress were measured and compared before and after the intervention. RESULTS We identified significant differences in mindfulness (F(5, 14) = 7.441, p = 0.001, η2 = 0.727), compassion satisfaction (F(1, 19) = 5.929, p = 0.025, η2 = 0.238) and perceived stress levels (t(18) = 2.863, p = 0.010, d = 0.611) after the intervention; non-significant improvements were observed for the remaining variables assessed. CONCLUSIONS MBIs could be an effective way of reducing stress levels among police officers in Spain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Márquez
- Centro de meditación Tushita, Girona, Spain
- Medical Consulting Arcades Ambo SL, Sant Joan, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | - Laura Galiana
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral Sciences, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Amparo Oliver
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral Sciences, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Noemí Sansó
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
- Balearic Islands Health Research Institute (IDISBA), Palma, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ortega-Galán ÁM, Ruiz-Fernández MD, Ortíz-Amo R. Compassion and empathy in community social workers: A qualitative study in Spain. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:1349-1358. [PMID: 32946665 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Compassion and empathy are considered to be elements of paramount importance in professionals working with individuals in need. However, the term 'compassion' generates controversy among social workers, while the term 'empathy' seems to be more universally accepted among these professionals. This qualitative study used a hermeneutic approach and aimed to explore and understand social workers' experiences with empathy and compassion in the community setting. Between January and June 2019, nine in-depth interviews and two focus group sessions were conducted with social workers from community social centres and primary healthcare centres in the province of Almería (Spain), with a total of 23 participants. The software Atlas.ti 8.0 was used for discourse analysis. Professionals reported that it was necessary for them to have an empathic attitude towards service users, and claimed that being empathic towards individuals in need was a moral obligation. They also reported that, although being empathic is a trait of these professionals, they have to avoid being affected by it, and that there are situations that block empathy. With respect to their perception of compassion, different interpretations of the concept were found: some professionals understand compassion as pity; other professionals have difficulty understanding the term and other professionals understand compassion as help. It has become necessary to change and develop the very conceptualisation of compassion and to create compassion promotion programmes, as this is fundamental for the protection and satisfaction of social workers themselves and for the sustainability of the support they provide to individuals who are in great distress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rocío Ortíz-Amo
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kurebayashi Y. Self-compassion and nursing competency among Japanese psychiatric nurses. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2021; 57:1009-1018. [PMID: 33078412 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined the association of self-focus and self-compassion with nursing competency. DESIGN AND METHODS Data of 433 psychiatric nurses comprising demographics, other-consciousness, self-compassion, self-focus, and nursing competency were analyzed using the Other-Consciousness Scale (OCS), Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), Japanese version of the Rumination-Reflection Questionnaire (RRQ), and Oriented Problem Solving Behavior (OPSN). FINDINGS Higher internal aspect and lower fantastic aspect in OCS, higher reflection in RRQ, and lower SCS negative subscales predicted a higher OPSN score. The account rate of variance was 12.5%. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Psychiatric nursing education should facilitate other-consciousness and reflection enhancement, and assuage uncompassionate attitude towards self.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Kurebayashi
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata City, Niigata, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Stevens F, Taber K. The neuroscience of empathy and compassion in pro-social behavior. Neuropsychologia 2021; 159:107925. [PMID: 34186105 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2021.107925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Research in the scientific literature increasingly demonstrates that empathy consists of multiple dimensions, and that defining empathy as a single encompassing term may be imprecise. Recent calls have been made for increasing empathy as means to increase pro-social behavior. However, contradictory evidence exists that empathy may reduce pro-social behavior. This debate has sparked confusion around what is empathy, along with the value of empathy in promoting pro-social behavior. This paper will examine recent advances in affective neuroscience to better understand the construct of empathy and its relationship to pro-social behavior. Individuals' responses to affective empathy, seeing the suffering of others can result in personal distress or empathic concern, which may then subsequently affect motivation for pro-social behavior. Current research in affective neuroscience suggests that combining compassion interventions in conjunction with both affective and cognitive empathy offers the most optimal likelihood that individuals will engage in pro-social behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Katherine Taber
- Veterans Affairs Mid Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, USA; W.G. "Bill" Hefner VA Medical Center, USA; Division of Biomedical Sciences at College of Osteopathic Medicine, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Baylor College of Medicine, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zarzycka B, Jankowski T, Krasiczyńska B. Therapeutic relationship and professional burnout in psychotherapists: A structural equation model approach. Clin Psychol Psychother 2021; 29:250-259. [PMID: 34125500 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies on the therapists' burnout have focused on individual and environmental risk factors. This study aimed to analyse whether variables reflecting therapeutic relationship-the therapist experience of relational depth and quality of the therapeutic relationship-can be related to psychotherapist burnout. Four alternative path models were examined. A total of 101 humanistic-experiential psychotherapists, aged between 29 and 86 years, participated in the research. The Relational Depth Frequency Scale, the Scale to Assess the Therapeutic Relationship, the Psychological Well-Being Scale and the Link Burnout Questionnaire were applied to the research. The results showed that relational depth and therapeutic quality correlated negatively with psychotherapist burnout. Relational depth is the main predictor of psychological well-being and psychotherapist burnout through its effect on therapeutic quality. The experiences of relational depth, primarily of person-centred therapists, have positive psychological potential in predicting lower professional burnout.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beata Zarzycka
- Institute of Psychology, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Jankowski
- Institute of Psychology, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Pyszkowska A, Rönnlund M. Psychological Flexibility and Self-Compassion as Predictors of Well-Being: Mediating Role of a Balanced Time Perspective. Front Psychol 2021; 12:671746. [PMID: 34177730 PMCID: PMC8222535 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.671746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Measures of psychological flexibility and self-compassion are strongly associated with well-being. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that these relationships are mediated by a balanced time perspective, a proposed ideal way of relating to the past, present, and future that may correspond with an ability to flexibly switch temporal focus. For this purpose, a Polish community sample (N = 421) responded to a web-survey including measures of psychological flexibility (AAQ-II), self-compassion (SCS), two measures of positive aspects of well-being (Satisfaction with Life, Quality of Life), and the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI). Structural equation models, involving a measure of deviation from a balanced time perspective (DBTP) as a mediator of relationships between latent-level psychological flexibility, self-compassion and well-being factors, were tested. We examined separate models for psychological flexibility and self-compassion and a model including both constructs. The results for separate models were consistent with partial mediation of relationships with well-being, both for psychological flexibility and self-compassion. Results for the analysis involving both constructs, suggested unique contributions of both to DBTP, which in turn predicted well-being, but the link between psychological flexibility and DBTP appeared to be the strongest. In further analyses, three ZTPI dimensions were identified as most critical, namely Past Positive, Present Fatalistic, and Past Negative, each of which were part of an indirect effect on well-being. Psychological flexibility in particular, showed a strong negative association with a Past Negative orientation. Taken together, the results indicate that time perspective is a factor to understand the links between psychological flexibility/self-compassion and well-being. While the results pertaining to self-compassion were consistent with results of a couple of prior studies, this is, to our knowledge, the first demonstration of a link between psychological flexibility and a balanced time perspective. These findings should be relevant for clinical research and practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pyszkowska
- Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Hedderman E, O’Doherty V, O’Connor S. Mindfulness moments for clinicians in the midst of a pandemic. Ir J Psychol Med 2021; 38:154-157. [PMID: 32434620 PMCID: PMC7276502 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2020.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Clinicians are routinely subjected to intense and stressful working environments, and the current COVID-19 crisis increases their risk of psychological distress. Mindfulness has been shown to improve life satisfaction, resilience to stress, self-compassion, compassion and general well-being in healthcare workers. Based on their clinical experience, the authors present mindfulness moments for clinicians (MMFC), a selection of short, simple and accessible mindfulness practices to promote resilience and compassion among clinicians working in this pandemic. The practices can be used on the job and are accessible to both novice and experienced meditators. Most of these practices are extracted from evidence-based mindfulness programmes. Further research is indicated to assess the effectiveness of using MMFC to support clinicians in their work and to promote resilience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - V. O’Doherty
- Department of Psychology, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - S. O’Connor
- Department of Psychology, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Baker C, Gabriel L. Exploring how therapists engage in self-care in times of personal distress. BRITISH JOURNAL OF GUIDANCE & COUNSELLING 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/03069885.2021.1885010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
28
|
Prudenzi A, D Graham C, Flaxman PE, O'Connor DB. Wellbeing, burnout, and safe practice among healthcare professionals: predictive influences of mindfulness, values, and self-compassion. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2021; 27:1130-1143. [PMID: 33856236 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2021.1898651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Poor wellbeing and burnout are significant issues among health-care professionals (HCPs) and may contribute to unsafe practice. In this exploratory study, we aimed to: provide the first investigation of the combined and unique influences of these psychological factors in predicting safe practice; confirm the role played by mindfulness in relation to wellbeing, burnout and safe practice; and investigate whether values and self-compassion predict additional variability above and beyond mindfulness skills. Ninety-eight NHS staff completed measures of wellbeing, burnout, perceived safety of practice, mindfulness, values and self-compassion. Practitioners with higher perceived safety of practice reported higher levels of mindfulness, but not values or self-compassion, particularly lower experiential avoidance and nonjudgmental attitude toward difficult thoughts. Mindfulness explained significant variability in psychological distress (20%), emotional exhaustion (8%), cognitive weariness (10%), patient safety related to oneself (7%), and related to work (8%). Values (obstruction) added unique variance for psychological distress (12%) and physical fatigue (10%). Moreover, self-compassion explained a small yet significant portion of variability in emotional exhaustion. These preliminary findings suggest that mindfulness processes may be associated with perceived safety of practice. The results also indicate that mindfulness-based interventions for HCPs may benefit from the inclusion of values-based action components and self-compassion practices.
Collapse
|
29
|
Chio FHN, Mak WWS, Cheng RHL, Hsu AYK, Kwan HHM. Can compassion to the self be extended to others: the association of self-compassion and other-focused concern. THE JOURNAL OF POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/17439760.2021.1913638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Floria H. N. Chio
- Department of Counselling and Psychology, Hong Kong Shue Yan University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Winnie W. S. Mak
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Regina H. L. Cheng
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Annie Y. K. Hsu
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Helen H. M. Kwan
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hurst R, Prescott J. Counselling as a calling: Meaning in life and perceived self‐competence in counselling students. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hurst
- School of Education and Psychology University of Bolton Bolton UK
| | - Julie Prescott
- School of Education and Psychology University of Bolton Bolton UK
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Beaumont E, Bell T, McAndrew S, Fairhurst H. The impact of compassionate mind training on qualified health professionals undertaking a compassion‐focused therapy module. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Beaumont
- Psychotherapist and Lecturer in Counselling and Psychotherapy University of SalfordSchool of Health and Society Salford UK
| | - Tobyn Bell
- Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust Manchester UK
| | - Sue McAndrew
- Mental Health and NursingUniversity of SalfordSchool of Health and Society Salford UK
| | - Helen Fairhurst
- Counselling and PsychotherapyUniversity of SalfordSchool of Health and Society Salford UK
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Chio FHN, Mak WWS, Yu BCL. Meta-analytic review on the differential effects of self-compassion components on well-being and psychological distress: The moderating role of dialecticism on self-compassion. Clin Psychol Rev 2021; 85:101986. [PMID: 33667941 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2021.101986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Although self-compassion has been extensively studied in the recent decades, the representation of self-compassion as a unitary measure or the presence of self-warmth (i.e., presence of the positive components: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness) and self-coldness (i.e., presence of the negative components: self-judgment, isolation, and mindfulness) remains controversial. Moreover, the differential effects of the six components of self-compassion on mental well-being and psychological distress have not been systematically investigated. To synthesize the differential effects of the six components of self-compassion and to examine how people in different cultures may associate the positive and negative components of self-compassion differentially, the present meta-analysis synthesized 183 effect sizes across 27 cultures. Results showed that the negative components of self-compassion (rs = 0.44 to 0.45) showed greater effect sizes with psychological distress than the positive counterparts (rs = -0.17 to -0.29) whereas the positive components of SCS (rs = 0.29 to.39) showed greater effect sizes with mental well-being than the negative counterparts (rs = -0.29 to -0.36), with the exception of common humanity and isolation (r = 0.29 and - 0.36). Cultural orientation of dialecticism moderated the association between the positive and the negative components of self-compassion, with dialectical cultures showing lower associations between the two opposing components. Findings have implications on the design and implementation of self-compassion interventions cross-culturally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Floria H N Chio
- Department of Counselling and Psychology, Hong Kong Shue Yan University, Hong Kong
| | - Winnie W S Mak
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong.
| | - Ben C L Yu
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Watts KJ, O'Connor M, Johnson CE, Breen LJ, Kane RT, Choules K, Doyle C, Buchanan G, Yuen K. Mindfulness-Based Compassion Training for Health Professionals Providing End-of-Life Care: Impact, Feasibility, and Acceptability. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:1364-1374. [PMID: 33666500 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Health professionals who care for patients and their families at the end of life (EOL) may experience gratitude, and enhanced spirituality and meaning in life, yet they are also at increased risk of psychological distress, compassion fatigue, and occupational burnout given the stressors they encounter in their work. Objectives: This research evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of a novel six-week mindfulness-based compassion training intervention, which was tailored to health professionals involved in EOL care ("MBCT4HP"), and explored its impact on levels of psychological distress, compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction, occupational burnout, self-compassion, and mindfulness. Design: We adopted an observational, repeated measures pilot study. Setting/Subjects: Thirty-one health professionals participated. The intervention comprised six, weekly sessions (totaling seven hours) designed to foster compassion for self and others, including formal and informal compassion and mindfulness practices, daily home practice, and a reflective experiential pedagogy. Measurements: Validated outcome measures for anxiety, depression, and stress; compassion satisfaction, compassion fatigue (burnout, secondary traumatic stress); occupational burnout (emotional exhaustion, personal accomplishment, and depersonalization), self-compassion, and mindfulness were administered at baseline, end of intervention, and eight weeks postintervention. The feasibility and acceptability of the intervention was assessed using attendance records, home practice logs, and self-report satisfaction items. Descriptive statistics and Generalized Linear Mixed Models were used to analyze the data. Results: Participants reported that the sessions were useful, relevant, easy to understand, and that they gave them sufficient knowledge to implement the strategies learned. Levels of anxiety, compassion fatigue (burnout only), and emotional exhaustion decreased over time with some decay in effects at follow up, and levels of compassion satisfaction and self-compassion increased with time. Conclusions: The intervention was feasible and acceptable to health professionals involved in EOL care and had a positive impact on levels of anxiety, compassion fatigue (burnout), emotional exhaustion, compassion satisfaction, and self-compassion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaaren J Watts
- WA Cancer Prevention Research Unit, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Moira O'Connor
- WA Cancer Prevention Research Unit, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Claire E Johnson
- Monash Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lauren J Breen
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Robert T Kane
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Claire Doyle
- Silver Chain Palliative Dementia Service, Osborne Park, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Grace Buchanan
- Palliative and Supportive Care Education, Cancer Council Western Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kevin Yuen
- Palliative Care Department, Royal Perth Bentley Group, East Metropolitan Health Service, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
McDonald MA, Meckes SJ, Lancaster CL. Compassion for Oneself and Others Protects the Mental Health of First Responders. Mindfulness (N Y) 2020; 12:659-671. [PMID: 33204359 PMCID: PMC7662019 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-020-01527-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Objectives First responders are at elevated risk for psychological distress from frequent exposure to potentially traumatic events. Self-compassion may buffer against the negative impact of these stressors, and the potential emotional challenges of having high levels of compassion for others. However, little is known about the psychological impact of compassion in first responders. We examined how self-compassion, compassionate love for others, and service role interacted to predict mental health in a diverse group of first responders. Methods First responders (N = 171) with both traditional and emotional support roles completed an online survey including measures of self-compassion, compassionate love, psychological distress, post-traumatic stress, secondary traumatic stress, burnout, resilience, compassion satisfaction, and life satisfaction. Results Greater self-compassion and compassionate love both independently predicted less depersonalization (|β|s ≥ .18, ps < .01). Greater self-compassion predicted less general psychological distress, post-traumatic stress, secondary traumatic stress, and emotional exhaustion, as well as greater resilience and life satisfaction (|β|s ≥ .35, ps < .001). Greater compassionate love predicted greater personal accomplishment and compassion satisfaction for all first responders (|β|s ≥ .30, ps < .001); for traditional first responders only, greater self-compassion predicted greater personal accomplishment and compassion satisfaction (role x self-compassion; |β|s ≥ .16, ps < .05). Emotional support first responders reported less emotional exhaustion and greater resilience than traditional first responders (|β|s ≥ .21, ps < .05). Conclusions Self-compassion and compassionate love each play important roles in promoting mental health among first responders. Programs designed to increase compassion could be beneficial in this population. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12671-020-01527-y.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mollie A McDonald
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, (0296) 1664 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89557 USA
| | - Samantha J Meckes
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, (0296) 1664 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89557 USA
| | - Cynthia L Lancaster
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, (0296) 1664 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89557 USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Galiana L, Oliver A, Arena F, De Simone G, Tomás JM, Vidal-Blanco G, Muñoz-Martínez I, Sansó N. Development and validation of the Short Professional Quality of Life Scale based on versions IV and V of the Professional Quality of Life Scale. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2020; 18:364. [PMID: 33176807 PMCID: PMC7656889 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-020-01618-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This research presents a short version of the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) scale, one of the most frequently used questionnaires in the arena of applied healthcare investigation. It measures burnout (BO), compassion fatigue (CF), and compassion satisfaction (CS). Methods A 9-item version of the ProQOL was developed. In Study 1, this short version, which used items from version IV of the ProQOL, was administered to 817 palliative care professionals from Spain, Argentina, and Brazil. In Study 2, the same nine items, but this time from version V of the ProQOL, were administered to 296 Spanish palliative care professionals. Results Study 1: The Short ProQOL showed an adequate internal structure, and invariance across the countries studied (χ2(106) = 185.620 (p < 0.001), CFI = .929, RMSEA = 0.058 [0.044, 0.072], SRMR = 0.081). Argentinians showed higher levels of BO (mean difference = 0.172, p = 0.042, Cohen’s d = 0.168), whereas Brazilians showed higher levels of CF (Mean difference = 0.384, p = 0.002, Cohen’s d = 0.352). Study 2: the Short ProQOL again showed adequate internal structure and reliability (χ2(24) = 134.504 (p < 0.001); CFI = 0.953; RMSEA = 0.126 [0.106, 0.147]; SRMR = 0.063), and was related to coping with death, self-compassion, and self-care. Conclusions The Short ProQOL could help facilitate the application of harmonizing measurements and its use for cross-cultural comparisons and occupational health monitoring was satisfactory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Galiana
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral Sciences, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibañez, 21, 46010, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Amparo Oliver
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral Sciences, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibañez, 21, 46010, Valencia, Spain
| | - Fernanda Arena
- Pós-doutoranda pelo Programa de Pós-Graduação em Serviço Social, Escola de Humanidades, pela Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - José M Tomás
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral Sciences, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibañez, 21, 46010, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Noemí Sansó
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Balearic Islands Health Research Institute IDISBA, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Yela JR, Gómez‐martínez MÁ, Crego A, Jiménez L. Effects of the Mindful Self‐Compassion programme on clinical and health psychology trainees' well‐being: A pilot study. CLIN PSYCHOL-UK 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/cp.12204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- José Ramón Yela
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain,
| | | | - Antonio Crego
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain,
| | - Laura Jiménez
- Health Psychology Service, Pontifical University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain,
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Cantu L, Thomas L. Baseline well-being, perceptions of critical incidents, and openness to debriefing in community hospital emergency department clinical staff before COVID-19, a cross-sectional study. BMC Emerg Med 2020; 20:82. [PMID: 33059583 PMCID: PMC7558255 DOI: 10.1186/s12873-020-00372-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency department personnel routinely bear witness to traumatic experiences and critical incidents that can affect their own well-being. Peer support through debriefing has demonstrated positive impacts on clinicians' well-being following critical incidents. This study explored community hospital emergency department staff's perceptions of critical incidents, assessed openness to debriefing and measured baseline well-being. Our analysis provides a baseline of provider well-being immediately prior to the local onset of COVID-19. The potential need for additional resources to support frontline providers during the pandemic can be evaluated. METHOD We conducted a cross-sectional study for 4-weeks prior to the first COVID-19 case in Connecticut using a survey offered to an interprofessional group of emergency department clinical staff. The main outcome measures were the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) scale. Pearson's chi-square test was used to identify significant differences in perceptions of critical incidents and debriefings between professional categories. One-way ANOVA and Tukey's test were used to analyze significant differences in well-being between professional categories. RESULTS Thirty-nine clinical personnel from St. Vincent's Emergency Department responded to the survey. Events frequently selected as critical incidents were caring for critically ill children (89.7%), mass casualty events (84.6%), and death of a patient (69.2%). Critical incidents were commonly reported (81.6%) as occurring once per week. Additionally, 76.2% of participants reported wanting to discuss a critical incident with their team. Across all respondents, 45.7% scored borderline or abnormal for anxiety, 55.9% scored moderate for burnout, and 55.8% scored moderate to high for secondary traumatic stress. CONCLUSIONS At baseline, providers reported caring for critically ill children, mass casualty events, and death of a patient as critical incidents, which typically occurred once per week. Death of a patient occurs at increased frequency during the protracted mass casualty experience of COVID-19 and threatens provider well-being. Receptiveness to post-event debriefing is high but the method is still underutilized. With nearly half of staff scoring borderline or abnormal for anxiety, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress at baseline, peer support measures should be implemented to protect frontline providers' well-being during and after the pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cantu
- Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, 370 Bassett Rd, North Haven, CT, 06473, USA.
| | - Listy Thomas
- Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, 370 Bassett Rd, North Haven, CT, 06473, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Mascaro JS, Florian MP, Ash MJ, Palmer PK, Frazier T, Condon P, Raison C. Ways of Knowing Compassion: How Do We Come to Know, Understand, and Measure Compassion When We See It? Front Psychol 2020; 11:547241. [PMID: 33132956 PMCID: PMC7561712 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.547241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, empirical research on compassion has burgeoned in the biomedical, clinical, translational, and foundational sciences. Increasingly sophisticated understandings and measures of compassion continue to emerge from the abundance of multidisciplinary and cross-disciplinary studies. Naturally, the diversity of research methods and theoretical frameworks employed presents a significant challenge to consensus and synthesis of this knowledge. To bring the empirical findings of separate and sometimes siloed disciplines into conversation with one another requires an examination of their disparate assumptions about what compassion is and how it can be known. Here, we present an integrated theoretical review of methodologies used in the empirical study of compassion. Our goal is to highlight the distinguishing features of each of these ways of knowing compassion, as well as the strengths and limitations of applying them to specific research questions. We hope this will provide useful tools for selecting methods that are tailored to explicit objectives (methods matching), taking advantage of methodological complementarity across disciplines (methods mixing), and incorporating the empirical study of compassion into fields in which it may be missing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer S. Mascaro
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Marcia J. Ash
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Patricia K. Palmer
- Department of Spiritual Health, Woodruff Health Sciences Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Tyralynn Frazier
- Center for Contemplative Science and Compassion-Based Ethics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Paul Condon
- Department of Psychology, Southern Oregon University, Ashland, OR, United States
| | - Charles Raison
- School of Human Ecology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant stress and anxiety for many parents around the world. Psychological flexibility and self-care are fundamental aspects of psychological health. For parents, shaping these processes may help promote family nurturance, support children's prosocial behavior, and provide effective and consistent use of evidence-based parenting "kernels." The goal of this article is to provide practitioners with evidence-based tools that will support psychological flexibility, self-care, and positive parenting behaviors in caregivers during COVID-19 and beyond.
Collapse
|
40
|
Wasson RS, Barratt C, O'Brien WH. Effects of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Self-compassion in Health Care Professionals: a Meta-analysis. Mindfulness (N Y) 2020; 11:1914-1934. [PMID: 32421083 PMCID: PMC7223423 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-020-01342-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Health care professionals have elevated rates of burnout and compassion fatigue which are correlated with poorer quality of life and patient care, and inversely correlated with self-compassion. Primary studies have evaluated the extent to which mindfulness-based interventions increase self-compassion with contradictory findings. A meta-analytic review of the literature was conducted to quantitatively synthesize the effects of mindfulness-based interventions on self-compassion among health care professionals. Methods Twenty-eight treatment outcome studies were identified eligible for inclusion. Five cumulative effect sizes were calculated using random-effects models to evaluate differences of changes in self-compassion for treatment and control groups. Within and between group comparisons were evaluated. Sub-group and moderator analyses were conducted to explore potential moderating variables. Results Twenty-seven articles (k = 29, N = 1020) were utilized in the pre-post-treatment meta-analysis. Fifteen samples (52%) included health care professionals and fourteen (48%) professional health care students. Results showed a moderate effect size between pre-post-treatment comparisons (g = .61, 95% CI = .47 to .76) for self-compassion and a strong effect size for pre-treatment to follow-up (g = .76, 95% CI = .41 to 1.12). The effect size comparing post-treatment versus post-control was moderate. One exploratory moderator analysis was significant, with stronger effects for interventions with a retreat component. Conclusions Findings suggest mindfulness-based interventions improve self-compassion in health care professionals. Additionally, a variety of mindfulness-based programs may be useful for employees and trainees. Future studies with rigorous methodology evaluating effects on self-compassion and patient care from mindfulness-based interventions are warranted to extend findings and explore moderators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S Wasson
- Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, 822 E Merry Ave, Bowling Green, OH 43403 USA
| | - Clare Barratt
- Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, 822 E Merry Ave, Bowling Green, OH 43403 USA
| | - William H O'Brien
- Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, 822 E Merry Ave, Bowling Green, OH 43403 USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Kurebayashi Y, Harada Y. Effect of process recording and self-compassion on self-focus: A pre-post interventional pilot study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.14687/jhs.v17i1.5753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Research Problem/aim: This study examined whether process recording increases self-focus, and whether this effect is moderated by self-compassion.
Methods: Participants included 31 undergraduates in Tokyo. A pre-post-test design was used. Participants completed measures including self-focus and self-compassion before and after process recording. Participants were divided into high and low self-compassion groups. Findings: Overall, the mean rumination and reflection scores were 42.0 and 37.9, respectively, at pre-intervention. The low self-compassion group (n = 14) showed no significant changes in either subscale. The high self-compassion group (n = 17) showed a significant reduction in rumination.
Conclusions: Overall, process recording does not influence self-focus, but does reduce rumination in those with high self-compassion. Enhancing self-compassion is needed before using process recording to prevent excessive rumination.
Collapse
|
42
|
Winders S, Murphy O, Looney K, O'Reilly G. Self‐compassion, trauma, and posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review. Clin Psychol Psychother 2020; 27:300-329. [DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah‐Jane Winders
- Department of Clinical PsychologyUniversity College Dublin Dublin Ireland
| | - Orlagh Murphy
- Department of Clinical PsychologyUniversity College Dublin Dublin Ireland
| | - Kathy Looney
- Department of Clinical PsychologyUniversity College Dublin Dublin Ireland
| | - Gary O'Reilly
- Department of Clinical PsychologyUniversity College Dublin Dublin Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Lee MK, Kim E, Paik IS, Chung J, Lee SM. Relationship between environmental factors and burnout of psychotherapists: Meta‐analytic approach. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
44
|
Weingartner LA, Sawning S, Shaw MA, Klein JB. Compassion cultivation training promotes medical student wellness and enhanced clinical care. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2019; 19:139. [PMID: 31077192 PMCID: PMC6511143 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-019-1546-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compassionate health care is associated with positive patient outcomes. Educational interventions for medical students that develop compassion may also increase wellness, decrease burnout, and improve provider-patient relationships. Research on compassion training in medical education is needed to determine how students learn and apply these skills. The authors evaluated an elective course for medical students modeled after the Compassion Cultivation Training course developed by the Stanford Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. The elective goals were to strengthen student compassion, kindness, and wellness through compassion training and mindfulness meditation training modeled by a faculty instructor. The research objectives were to understand students' applications and perceptions of this training. METHODS Over three years, 45 students participated in the elective at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. The course administered a pre/post Kentucky Inventory of Mindfulness Skills that measured observing, describing, acting with awareness, and accepting without judgment. Qualitative analyses of self-reported experiences were used to assess students' perceptions of compassion training and their application of skills learned through the elective. RESULTS The mindfulness inventory showed significant improvements in observing (t = 3.62, p = 0.005) and accepting without judgment skills (t = 2.87, p = 0.017) for some elective cohorts. Qualitative data indicated that students across all cohorts found the elective rewarding, and they used mindfulness, meditation, and compassion skills broadly outside the course. Students described how the training helped them address major stressors associated with personal, academic, and clinical responsibilities. Students also reported that the skills strengthened interpersonal interactions, including with patients. CONCLUSIONS These outcomes illuminate students' attitudes toward compassion training and suggest that among receptive students, a brief, student-focused intervention can be enthusiastically received and positively influence students' compassion toward oneself and others. To underscore the importance of interpersonal and cognitive skills such as compassion and mindfulness, faculty should consider purposefully modeling these skills to students. Modeling compassion cultivation and mindfulness skills in the context of patient interactions may address student empathy erosion more directly than stress management training alone. This pilot study shows compassion training could be an attractive, efficient option to address burnout by simultaneously promoting student wellness and enhanced patient interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura A. Weingartner
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Undergraduate Medical Education, 500 South Preston Street, Louisville, KY 40202 USA
| | - Susan Sawning
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Undergraduate Medical Education, 500 South Preston Street, Louisville, KY 40202 USA
| | - M. Ann Shaw
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Undergraduate Medical Education, 500 South Preston Street, Louisville, KY 40202 USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 530 S Jackson Street, Louisville, KY 40202 USA
| | - Jon B. Klein
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 530 S Jackson Street, Louisville, KY 40202 USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Rosenfeld AJ. The Neuroscience of Happiness and Well-Being: What Brain Findings from Optimism and Compassion Reveal. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2019; 28:137-146. [PMID: 30832948 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Increasing behavioral data support the value of developing positive traits and attitudes to promote mental health and human flourishing. A neuroscience approach to understanding the mechanisms of the key constructs of optimism and compassion is relevant toward improving identification and measurement of relevant traits, progress and barriers to cultivating these traits, and identifying which mental health-promoting practices are most effective in promoting growth of optimism and compassion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Rosenfeld
- Psychiatry and Pediatrics, Vermont Center for Children, Youth and Families, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, 1 South Prospect Street, Burlington, VT 05401, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Pettit A, McVicar A, Knight‐Davidson P, Shaw‐Flach A. Releasing latent compassion through an innovative compassion curriculum for Specialist Community Public Health Nurses. J Adv Nurs 2019; 75:1053-1062. [DOI: 10.1111/jan.13928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ann Pettit
- Faculty of Health, Social Care & Education (restructured Oct 2018 as Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine & Social Care) Anglia Ruskin University Chelmsford UK
| | - Andrew McVicar
- Faculty of Health, Social Care & Education (restructured Oct 2018 as Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine & Social Care) Anglia Ruskin University Chelmsford UK
| | - Pamela Knight‐Davidson
- Faculty of Health, Social Care & Education (restructured Oct 2018 as Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine & Social Care) Anglia Ruskin University Chelmsford UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Richardson CME, Trusty WT, George KA. Trainee wellness: self-critical perfectionism, self-compassion, depression, and burnout among doctoral trainees in psychology. COUNSELLING PSYCHOLOGY QUARTERLY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/09515070.2018.1509839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Wilson T. Trusty
- Department of Psychology and Communication Studies, University of Idaho
| | - Kylie A. George
- Department of Psychology and Communication Studies, University of Idaho
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Simionato GK, Simpson S. Personal risk factors associated with burnout among psychotherapists: A systematic review of the literature. J Clin Psychol 2018; 74:1431-1456. [DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Susan Simpson
- School of Psychology, Social Work, and Social Policy; University of South Australia
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Bennett-Levy J, Finlay-Jones A. The role of personal practice in therapist skill development: a model to guide therapists, educators, supervisors and researchers. Cogn Behav Ther 2018; 47:185-205. [DOI: 10.1080/16506073.2018.1434678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- James Bennett-Levy
- University Centre for Rural Health, University of Sydney, Lismore, Australia
| | - Amy Finlay-Jones
- School of Psychology and Speech Pathology, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Sanchez M, Haynes A, Parada JC, Demir M. Friendship Maintenance Mediates the Relationship Between Compassion for Others and Happiness. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-017-9779-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|