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Naismith I, Otto Scheiber CS, Gonzalez Rodriguez D, Petrocchi N. Physiological response to self-compassion versus relaxation in a clinical population. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0272198. [PMID: 36749746 PMCID: PMC9904495 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compassion-focused imagery (CFI) can be an effective emotion-regulation technique but can create threat-focused responses in some individuals. However, these findings have been based on tasks involving receiving compassion from others. AIMS This study sought to compare responses CFI involving self-compassion to relaxation and a control task, and to see whether any threat-responses to self-compassion and relaxation decrease with practice. METHOD 25 participants with depression/anxiety symptoms and high self-criticism and/or low self-compassion engaged in three tasks (control task, relaxation imagery, and CFI) at three or four separate testing sessions, every three days. Heart-rate variability (HRV) was used to explore group-level differences between tasks. Additionally, we identified how many individuals showed a clinically significant change in HRV in response to compassion (compared to baseline) and how many showed such a change during relaxation (compared to baseline). RESULTS During session 1, more individuals had a clinically significant increase in HRV in response to CFI (56%) than in response to relaxation (44%), and fewer had a clinically significant decrease in HRV during CFI (16%) than during relaxation (28%). Comparing the group as a whole, no significant differences between tasks were seen. Repeated sessions led to fewer positive responses to CFI, perhaps reflecting habituation/boredom. CONCLUSIONS These preliminary findings suggest that in high self-critics (those most likely to find self-compassion difficult), self-compassionate imagery is no more challenging than standard relaxation tasks. For both compassion and relaxation, some individuals respond positively and others negatively. For those who are not benefiting, practice alone is not sufficient to improve response. Effects may differ for other compassion tasks. TRIAL REGISTRATION Trial number: NCT04647318.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iona Naismith
- Department of Psychology, University of the Andes, Bogota, Colombia
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Nicola Petrocchi
- Department of Economics and Social Sciences, John Cabot University, Rome, Italy
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2
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Golde S, Ludwig S, Lippoldt S, Rimpel J, Schulze L, Haucke M, Renneberg B, Heinzel S. Negative and positive self-beliefs in social anxiety: The strength of believing mediates the affective response. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281387. [PMID: 36920983 PMCID: PMC10016721 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Current cognitive models of social anxiety disorder (SAD) propose that individual, situation-specific self-beliefs are central to SAD. However, the role of differences in the degree to which individuals with social anxiety are convinced of self-beliefs, in particular positive ones, is still not fully understood. We compared how much high and low socially anxious individuals agree with their own negative and positive self-beliefs. Furthermore, we investigated whether agreeing with one's self-belief can explain the relation between negative affect in response to self-beliefs and social anxiety. Specifically, we were interested whether social anxiety increases negative affect in response to self-beliefs through an increase in agreement. METHODS We developed a new experimental self-belief task containing positive and negative semi-idiosyncratic, situation specific self-beliefs typical of high social anxiety and included a direct measure of agreement with these beliefs. Using extreme group sampling, we a-priori selected high (n = 51) and low (n = 50) socially anxious individuals. By multi-level mediation analysis, we analyzed agreement with self-beliefs in both groups and its association with affect. RESULTS High and low socially anxious individuals chose similar self-beliefs. However, high socially anxious individuals (HSA) agreed more with negative self-beliefs and less with positive self-beliefs compared to low socially anxious individuals (LSA). HSA individuals reported increased negative affect after both, exposition to negative and positive self-beliefs compared to LSA. We found that social anxiety increases affective responses towards negative-self beliefs through an increase in agreeing with these self-beliefs. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that cognitive models of social anxiety can be improved by including not only the content of a self-belief but also the strength of such a belief. In addition, they emphasize the relevance of positive self-beliefs in social anxiety, which has frequently been overlooked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Golde
- Department of Education and Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Sophie Ludwig
- Department of Education and Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven Lippoldt
- Department of Education and Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jérôme Rimpel
- Department of Education and Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, Institute of Psychology, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Lars Schulze
- Department of Education and Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Haucke
- Department of Education and Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charité –Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Babette Renneberg
- Department of Education and Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stephan Heinzel
- Department of Education and Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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3
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Luoma JB, Shahar B, Kati Lear M, Pilecki B, Wagner A. Potential processes of change in MDMA-Assisted therapy for social anxiety disorder: Enhanced memory reconsolidation, self-transcendence, and therapeutic relationships. Hum Psychopharmacol 2022; 37:e2824. [PMID: 34739165 PMCID: PMC9285360 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Researchers have suggested that psychotherapy may be enhanced by the addition of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), particularly in the treatment of disorders wherein interpersonal dysfunction is central, such as social anxiety disorder. We review literature pertaining to three potential processes of change that may be instigated during sessions involving MDMA administration in the treatment of social anxiety disorder. DESIGN This is a narrative review that integrates research on the etiology and maintenance of social anxiety disorder and mechanisms of action of MDMA to examine how MDMA may enhance psychotherapy outcomes. RESULTS We first outline how MDMA may enhance memory reconsolidation in social anxiety disorder. We then discuss how MDMA may induce experiences of self-transcendence and self-transcendent emotions such as compassion, love, and awe; and how these experiences may be therapeutic in the context of social anxiety disorder. We subsequently discuss the possibility that MDMA may enhance the strength and effectiveness of the therapeutic relationship which is a robust predictor of outcomes across many disorders as well as a potential key ingredient in treating disorders where shame and social disconnection are central factors. CONCLUSION We discuss how processes of change may extend beyond the MDMA dosing sessions themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason B. Luoma
- Portland Psychotherapy Clinic, Research, & Training CenterPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Ben Shahar
- The Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - M. Kati Lear
- Portland Psychotherapy Clinic, Research, & Training CenterPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Brian Pilecki
- Portland Psychotherapy Clinic, Research, & Training CenterPortlandOregonUSA
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4
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Beadle ES, Cain A, Akhtar S, Lennox J, McGuire L, Troop NA. Development and validation of the Body Compassion Questionnaire. Health Psychol Behav Med 2021; 9:951-988. [PMID: 34868737 PMCID: PMC8635608 DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2021.1993229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The associations between compassion, self-compassion, and body image are well established. However, there is not yet a compassion-informed measure of body compassion that can be applied to any aspect of one’s body. Method Items for The Body Compassion Questionnaire (BCQ) were derived from an earlier expressive writing study on self-compassion in body image. In study 1, the BCQ was completed by 728 men and women; with factor analysis, Rasch analysis, content and concurrent validation and reliability assessed. Study 2 compared BCQ scores with investigator-based ratings of spontaneous expressions of body compassion through writing in female undergraduates as well as an existing measure of body compassion. Study 3 examined the associations between BCQ scores, and the emotions expressed in a structured body image writing task. It also examined the relative predictive ability of the BCQ versus self-compassion in predicting eating pathology. Results A bi-factor structure was identified, with an overall BCQ score and three subscales: body kindness, common humanity, and motivated action. The BCQ and its subscales had good validity and reliability and Rasch analysis showed the item fit was invariant across a range of demographic characteristics. Spontaneous expressions of body compassion showed positive associations with body kindness. Overall BCQ scores and body kindness were also inversely related to negative emotions expressed in relation to body image. The BCQ was a better predictor of eating disorder symptoms than was self-compassion. Conclusions The BCQ is the first measure of body compassion that is aligned with theoretical aspects of self-compassion, and which includes aspects of both the first and second psychologies of compassion. It also highlights its potential use as a process measure of body compassion in models of eating disorder symptomology, mood and wellbeing as well as an outcome measure for compassion-based interventions in eating disorders and body image.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily S Beadle
- Department of Psychology and Sport Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Alison Cain
- Department of Psychology and Sport Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Shazia Akhtar
- Department of Psychology and Sport Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Joyce Lennox
- Department of Psychology and Sport Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Lauren McGuire
- Department of Psychology and Sport Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Nicholas A Troop
- Department of Psychology and Sport Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
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5
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Abstract
Abstract
Fear of evaluation and a negative view of the self are the core aspects of social anxiety. Self-compassion and self-esteem are two distinct positive attitudes toward the self, which are positively related to each other, well-being and good psychological functioning. It is less clear, however, how they interplay in socially anxious individuals and if self-compassion may reduce the negative effect of low self-esteem on social anxiety. The current research aimed at evaluating the directional links between those constructs to check if self-compassion mediates the effect of self-esteem on social anxiety. In this study, 388 adult participants with elevated social anxiety completed measures of self-compassion, self-esteem and social anxiety. As expected, both self-esteem and self-compassion correlated negatively with social anxiety and positively with one another, with lower self-esteem being a stronger predictor of social anxiety. Importantly, self-compassion partially mediated the relationship between self-esteem and social anxiety. These findings suggest that self-compassion partially explains the negative effects of deficits in self-esteem on social anxiety. Practical implications of the research are discussed.
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6
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Trindade IA, Sirois FM. The prospective effects of self-compassion on depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress: A study in inflammatory bowel disease. J Psychosom Res 2021; 146:110429. [PMID: 33810862 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2021.110429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To date, research with people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has only examined how self-compassion is linked with stress, and have exclusively used cross-sectional designs. This study aims to examine the associations of self-compassion with depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress in people with IBD over time. METHODS Participants were 155 adults with IBD who completed the SCS and the DASS-21 at two different times, spaced 9 months apart. The study design is longitudinal: three separate hierarchical regression models were conducted to examine whether self-compassion at baseline predicted depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress measured at follow-up, while controlling for the effects of baseline IBD symptomatology and the respective outcome. RESULTS Participants who had IBD for a longer period of time presented higher levels of self-compassion. Self-compassion at baseline predicted lower follow-up levels of depressive symptoms (β = -0.17, p = 0.015), anxiety (β = -0.15, p = 0.032), and stress (β = -0.26, p = 0.001), even in the presence of baseline levels of IBD symptomatology and the outcome. Isolation (as opposed to common humanity) was the most relevant self-compassion component for explaining higher depression levels, while the mindfulness component was important for explaining lower anxiety and stress. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to demonstrate the prospective effects of self-compassion on mental health indicators in IBD. Given these findings, and previous evidence on the high comorbidity of depression and anxiety and frequent self-report of illness shame and self-criticism in this population, compassion-based interventions may be particularly beneficial for improving well-being in people with IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês A Trindade
- CINEICC (Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention), Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Fuschia M Sirois
- Department of Psychology, The University of Sheffield, United Kingdom
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7
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O'Neill C, Pratt D, Kilshaw M, Ward K, Kelly J, Haddock G. The relationship between self-criticism and suicide probability. Clin Psychol Psychother 2021; 28:1445-1456. [PMID: 33847028 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The relationship of self-to-self relating and suicide has received attention in explanatory models of suicide. However, exploration of specific types of self-relationships, namely feelings of inadequacy (associated with perfectionism), self-attacking and the ability to be kind and nurturing towards the self has received limited attention in a suicidal population. The present study assessed the relative contribution of self-criticism to suicide probability, alongside established predictors of suicidal ideation; hopelessness, depression, defeat and entrapment. Participants completed measures of inadequacy, self-attacking, self-reassurance, defeat, entrapment, depression and hopelessness (N = 101). A correlation, regression and mediation analysis was undertaken. Results demonstrated that self-attacking has a direct relationship with suicide probability, alongside established predictors; entrapment and hopelessness. Depressive symptomology was not found to be a significant predictor of suicide probability in this population. Addressing particularly hostile forms of self-criticism may be a promising area in terms of future research and clinical practice. Entrapment continues to be a significant predictor of suicide risk and interventions that target this experience should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine O'Neill
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, England, UK
| | - Daniel Pratt
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, England, UK
| | - Meryl Kilshaw
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, England, UK
| | - Kate Ward
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, England, UK
| | - James Kelly
- Early Intervention in Psychosis Team, Lancashire Care NHS Trust, Preston, UK
| | - Gillian Haddock
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, England, UK
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8
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Petrocchi N, Cosentino T, Pellegrini V, Femia G, D'Innocenzo A, Mancini F. Compassion-Focused Group Therapy for Treatment-Resistant OCD: Initial Evaluation Using a Multiple Baseline Design. Front Psychol 2021; 11:594277. [PMID: 33510677 PMCID: PMC7835278 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.594277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a debilitating mental health disorder that can easily become a treatment-resistant condition. Although effective therapies exist, only about half of the patients seem to benefit from them when we consider treatment refusal, dropout rates, and residual symptoms. Thus, providing effective augmentation to standard therapies could improve existing treatments. Group compassion-focused interventions have shown promise for reducing depression, anxiety, and avoidance related to various clinical problems, but this approach has never been evaluated for OCD individuals. However, cultivating compassion for self and others seems crucial for OCD patients, given the accumulating research suggesting that fear of guilt, along with isolation and self-criticism, can strongly contribute to the development and maintenance of OCD. The primary aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the acceptability, tolerability, and effectiveness of an 8-week group compassion-focused intervention for reducing OCD symptoms, depression, fear of guilt and self-criticism, and increasing common humanity and compassionate self-reassuring skills in treatment-resistant OCD patients. Using a multiple baseline experimental design, the intervention was evaluated in a sample of OCD patients (N = 8) who had completed at least 6 months of CBT treatment for OCD, but who continued to suffer from significant symptoms. Participants were randomized to different baseline assessment lengths; they then received 8 weekly, 120-min group sessions of compassion-focused therapy for OCD (CFT-OCD), and then were tested again at post-treatment and at 1 month follow up. Despite the adverse external circumstances (post-treatment and follow-up data collection were carried out, respectively, at the beginning and in the middle of the Italian lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic), by the end of treatment, all participants demonstrated reliable decreases in OCD symptoms, and these improvements were maintained at 4-week follow-up for seven of eight participants. The intervention was also associated with improvements in fear of guilt, self-criticism, and self-reassurance, but less consistent improvements in depression and common humanity. Participants reported high levels of acceptability of and satisfaction with the intervention. Results suggest that the intervention may be beneficial as either a stand-alone treatment or as an augmentation to other treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Petrocchi
- Department of Economics and Social Sciences, John Cabot University, Rome, Italy.,Compassionate Mind Italia, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Valerio Pellegrini
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Antonella D'Innocenzo
- Compassionate Mind Italia, Rome, Italy.,Scuola di Psicoterapia Cognitiva S.r.l., Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Mancini
- Scuola di Psicoterapia Cognitiva S.r.l., Rome, Italy.,Department of Psychological Sciences, Guglielmo Marconi University, Rome, Italy
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9
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Stress, self-compassion, and well-being during the transition to college. Soc Sci Med 2021; 269:113514. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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10
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Integrating CBT and CFT within a case formulation approach to reduce depression and anxiety in an older adult with a complex mental and physical health history: a single case study. COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPIST 2020. [DOI: 10.1017/s1754470x20000410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are major contributors to growing healthcare costs in the UK, particularly with an increasingly ageing population. However, identification of mental health needs in older adults has been overshadowed by a tendency to focus on physical health issues, despite the established co-morbidity of depression, anxiety and physical health conditions. When older adults seek psychological support, treatment options may vary and may be time limited, either because of protocol guidance or due to the resource constraints of psychology services. Time-limited treatment, common in many adult services, may not best meet the needs of older adults, whose physical, cognitive and emotional needs alter with age. It is, therefore, important to identify treatments that best meet the needs of older adults who seek psychological support, but who may arrive with complex mental and physical health histories. This paper aims to explore how a case formulation-driven approach that draws on the theoretical underpinnings of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and compassion-focused therapy (CFT) can be used to reduce anxiety and depression in an older adult with a complex multi-morbid mental and physical health history. This study employs a single-case (A–B) experimental design [assessment (A), CBT and CFT intervention (B)] over 28 sessions. Results suggest the greatest reductions in depression and anxiety (as measured using PHQ-9 and GAD-7) occurred during the CFT phase of the intervention, although scores failed to drop below subclinical levels in any phase of the intervention. This case highlights the value of incorporating CFT with CBT in case formulation-driven interventions.
Key learning aims
(1)
To consider the value of using case formulation approaches in older adult populations.
(2)
To demonstrate flexibility in balancing evidence-based interventions with service user needs by incorporating CBT and CFT to treat anxiety and depression in an older adult.
(3)
To present a clinical case to identify how assessment, formulation and treatment of anxiety and depression are adapted to best meet the needs of older adults with complex co-morbid mental and physical health conditions.
(4)
To appreciate the impact of contextual factors, such as austerity measures, on therapeutic work with individuals with long-standing mental and physical health difficulties.
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11
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Shahar B. New Developments in Emotion-Focused Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E2918. [PMID: 32927706 PMCID: PMC7565910 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9092918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a highly complex, chronic, disabling and costly anxiety disorder. Although cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for many patients, many others do not respond to CBT or remain considerably symptomatic at the end of treatment. Pharmacological effects are also modest. More empirically-supported treatment options are needed in order to increase patient access to effective treatment. Emotion-focused therapy (EFT) shows great promise in treating SAD effectively and is particularly suitable for treating SAD because pervasive emotional avoidance, difficulties with emotional differentiation, and high levels of self-criticism, which are central psychopathological processes in SAD, are also primary therapeutic targets in EFT. EFT is based on the assumption that the most efficient way to change a maladaptive emotion is not through reason or skill learning, but through the activation of other, more adaptive emotions. EFT aims to access shame-based emotional memories that underlie SAD, and transform them by exposing them to new adaptive emotional experiences, such as empowering assertive anger, grief, and self-compassion. In this paper, the core features of EFT for SAD are presented, as well as the EFT view of dysfunction in SAD and EFT change processes. Research findings regarding the effectiveness of EFT for SAD are presented together with initial findings regarding mechanisms of change occurring during treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Shahar
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, Hebrew University, Jerusalem 91905, Israel
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12
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Rose AL, Kocovski NL. The Social Self-Compassion Scale (SSCS): Development, Validity, and Associations with Indices of Well-Being, Distress, and Social Anxiety. Int J Ment Health Addict 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-020-00302-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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13
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The effect of a brief online self-compassion versus cognitive restructuring intervention on trait social anxiety. Behav Res Ther 2019; 123:103492. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2019.103492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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14
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Sommers-Spijkerman M, Trompetter H, Schreurs K, Bohlmeijer E. Pathways to Improving Mental Health in Compassion-Focused Therapy: Self-Reassurance, Self-Criticism and Affect as Mediators of Change. Front Psychol 2018; 9:2442. [PMID: 30568617 PMCID: PMC6290051 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: The working mechanisms of compassion-focused therapy (CFT) remain understudied. Drawing on the theoretical model underlying CFT, we examined four putative working mechanisms – self-reassurance, self-criticism, positive/negative affect – in relation to changes in well-being and psychological distress. Methods: Data of a waitlist randomised controlled trial (N = 242) investigating the effectiveness of a self-help CFT-intervention in a non-clinical sample were analysed. Using single and multiple mediation models, we assessed if changes in self-reassurance, self-criticism and positive/negative affect during the intervention (3-month interval) mediated changes in well-being and depressive/anxiety symptoms from baseline to follow-up (6-month interval) compared to the waitlist condition. Results: For each outcome, single analyses revealed that the effects of CFT were significantly mediated by self-reassurance and self-criticism. The mediating role of affect differed across outcomes. In combined models, self-reassurance emerged as a significant mediator for well-being and anxiety symptoms. Additionally, positive and negative affect were found significant mediators of the effects on depressive and anxiety symptoms, respectively. Conclusion: This study provides preliminary empirical evidence that CFT operates through cultivating self-reassurance, reducing self-criticism and regulating positive and negative affect in a non-clinical sample. To advance the development of CFT, further exploration of therapeutic change processes and their interplay is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Sommers-Spijkerman
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Hester Trompetter
- Center of Research on Psychological and Somatic Disorders, Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Karlein Schreurs
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands.,Roessingh Research and Development, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Ernst Bohlmeijer
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands.,Optentia Research Focus Area, North-West University (VTC), Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
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15
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A Randomized Controlled Trial of Compassion Focused Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.5812/ijpbs.80945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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16
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Lee KC(G, Oh A. Introduction to compassionate view intervention: A Buddhist counseling technique based on Mahāyāna Buddhist teachings. JOURNAL OF SPIRITUALITY IN MENTAL HEALTH 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/19349637.2018.1464422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Oh
- Department of Psychology, University of the West, Rosemead, California, US
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17
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Lazarus G, Shahar B. The Role of Shame and Self-Criticism in Social Anxiety: A Daily-Diary Study in a Nonclinical Sample. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1521/jscp.2018.37.2.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We sought to explore the daily association between shame and self-criticism, and the extent to which this association varies as a function of social anxiety symptoms. Fifty-nine undergraduate students completed a measure of social anxiety symptoms at a baseline meeting and then completed measures of shame experienced during significant social interactions and self-criticism following those interactions twice daily for 10 days. Social anxiety symptoms predicted more shame during daily social interactions and more self-criticism following them. Additionally, shame predicted subsequent self-criticism. This relationship was moderated by levels of social anxiety symptoms, such that those with higher levels of social anxiety symptoms exhibited high levels of self-criticism following daily social interactions characterized by both high and low shame, whereas those with lower levels of social anxiety symptoms showed high levels of self-criticism only after interactions with high levels of shame. These findings are consistent with the notion that self-criticism may serve as a regulatory coping method when experiencing shame, and that social anxiety difficulties are related to an inflexibly high level of self-criticism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ben Shahar
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
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Keng SL, Wong YY. Association among self-compassion, childhood invalidation, and borderline personality disorder symptomatology in a Singaporean sample. Borderline Personal Disord Emot Dysregul 2017; 4:24. [PMID: 29209501 PMCID: PMC5704523 DOI: 10.1186/s40479-017-0075-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Linehan's biosocial theory posits that parental invalidation during childhood plays a role in the development of borderline personality disorder symptoms later in life. However, little research has examined components of the biosocial model in an Asian context, and variables that may influence the relationship between childhood invalidation and borderline symptoms. Self-compassion is increasingly regarded as an adaptive way to regulate one's emotions and to relate to oneself, and may serve to moderate the association between invalidation and borderline symptoms. The present study investigated the association among childhood invalidation, self-compassion, and borderline personality disorder symptoms in a sample of Singaporean undergraduate students. METHODS Two hundred and ninety undergraduate students from a large Singaporean university were recruited and completed measures assessing childhood invalidation, self-compassion, and borderline personality disorder symptoms. RESULTS Analyses using multiple regression indicated that both childhood invalidation and self-compassion significantly predicted borderline personality disorder symptomatology. Results from moderation analyses indicated that relationship between childhood invalidation and borderline personality disorder symptomatology did not vary as a function of self-compassion. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence in support of aspects of the biosocial model in an Asian context, and demonstrates a strong association between self-compassion and borderline personality disorder symptoms, independent of one's history of parental invalidation during childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shian-Ling Keng
- Division of Social Sciences, Yale-NUS College, Singapore, Singapore
- Elm College Office, 12 College Ave West, #01-201, Singapore, 138610 Singapore
| | - Yun Yi Wong
- Psychological Studies Academic Group, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
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Kirby JN. Compassion interventions: The programmes, the evidence, and implications for research and practice. Psychol Psychother 2017; 90:432-455. [PMID: 27664071 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Over the last 10-15 years, there has been a substantive increase in compassion-based interventions aiming to improve psychological functioning and well-being. METHODS This study provides an overview and synthesis of the currently available compassion-based interventions. What do these programmes looks like, what are their aims, and what is the state of evidence underpinning each of them? RESULTS This overview has found at least eight different compassion-based interventions (e.g., Compassion-Focused Therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, Cultivating Compassion Training, Cognitively Based Compassion Training), with six having been evaluated in randomized controlled trials, and with a recent meta-analysis finding that compassion-based interventions produce moderate effect sizes for suffering and improved life satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS Although further research is warranted, the current state of evidence highlights the potential benefits of compassion-based interventions on a range of outcomes that clinicians can use in clinical practice with clients. PRACTITIONER POINTS There are eight established compassion intervention programmes with six having RCT evidence. The most evaluated intervention to date is compassion-focused therapy. Further RCTs are needed in clinical populations for all compassion interventions. Ten recommendations are provided to improve the evidence-base of compassion interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- James N Kirby
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia.,The Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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Using Compassion Focused Therapy as an adjunct to Trauma-Focused CBT for Fire Service personnel suffering with trauma-related symptoms. COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPIST 2016. [DOI: 10.1017/s1754470x16000209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIndividuals working for the emergency services often bear witness to distressing events. This outcome study examines therapeutic interventions for Fire Service personnel (FSP) experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety and low levels of self-compassion. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of using Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) as an adjunct to Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) in reducing symptoms of trauma, anxiety and depression and increasing self-compassion. A convenience sample (n= 17) of participants, referred for therapy following a traumatic incident, were allocated to receive 12 sessions of either TF-CBT or TF-CBT coupled with CFT. The study employed a repeated-measures design. Data were gathered pre- and post-therapy, using three questionnaires: (1) Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; (2) Impact of Events Scale-R; (3) Self-Compassion Scale – Short Form. TF-CBT combined with CFT was more effective than TF-CBT alone on measures of self-compassion. Significant reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, hyperarousal, intrusion and avoidance and a significant increase in self-compassion occurred in both groups post-therapy. The study provides some preliminary evidence to suggest that FSP may benefit from therapeutic interventions aimed at cultivating self-compassion. Further research is warranted using a larger sample size and adequately powered randomized controlled trial, to detect statistically significant differences and to negate the risk of confound due to low numbers resulting in significant differences between groups at baseline. Using CFT as an adjunct to TF-CBT may help FSP, who bear witness to the distress of others, cultivate compassion for their own suffering.
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Petrocchi N, Ottaviani C, Couyoumdjian A. Compassion at the mirror: Exposure to a mirror increases the efficacy of a self-compassion manipulation in enhancing soothing positive affect and heart rate variability. JOURNAL OF POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/17439760.2016.1209544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Petrocchi
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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