A pilot exploration of the use of compassionate images in a group of self-critical people.
Self-criticism has long been associated with a variety of psychological problems and is often a key focus for intervention in psychotherapy. Recent work has suggested that self-critics have underelaborated and underdeveloped capacities for compassionate self-soothing and warmth. This pilot study developed a diary for monitoring self-attacking and self-soothing thoughts and images. It also explored the personal experiences of a group of volunteer self-critics from the local depression support group who were given training in self-soothing and self-compassion. Although using small numbers, this study suggests the potential value of developing more complex methodologies for studying the capacity for self-compassion, interventions to increase self-compassion (including imagery techniques), and their effects on mental health.
Mental Health Research Unit, Kingsway Hospital, Derby, UK. p.gilbert@derby.ac.uk
Paul
P
Gilbert
Chris
C
Irons
D003863:Depression / Q000523:psychology; D004644:Emotions; D004645:Empathy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007092:Imagination; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008499:Medical Records; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012649:Self Concept