scholarly journals Neurophysiological and behavioural markers of compassionate motivation

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeffrey J Kim
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Parasympathetic Nervous System ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Self Report ◽  
System Response ◽  
Neural Responses ◽  
Self Compassion ◽  
Multi Method Approach ◽  
Regulatory Styles ◽  
Mind Training

The scientific study of compassion is burgeoning, with research indicating that practicing compassion for oneself can facilitate well-being and buffer against mental health problems, specifically by protecting against the impacts of self-criticism and shame. However, the putative neurophysiological markers of compassion training programs which are increasingly being used in psychotherapy, such as compassionate mind training (CMT) are less well known. Herein we offer an integrative, multi-method approach which investigated CMT at neural, physiological, self-report, and behavioural levels. Specifically, this study first assessed participants’ neural responses when confronted with disappointments (e.g., rejection, failure) using two fundamental self-regulatory styles, self-criticism and self-compassion. Second, participant’s heart-rate variability (HRV) – a marker of parasympathetic nervous system response – was assessed during compassion training, pre- and post- a two-week self-directed engagement period. We identified neural networks associated with threat are reduced when practicing compassion, and heightened when being self-critical. In addition, cultivating compassion was associated with increased parasympathetic response as measured by an increase in HRV, versus the resting-state. Critically, cultivating compassion was able to shift a subset of clinically-at risk participants to one of increased parasympathetic response. Further, those who began the trial with lower resting HRV also engaged more in the intervention, possibly as they derived more benefits, both self-report and physiologically, from engagement in compassion.

Psychological well-being in childhood: The role of trait emotional intelligence, regulatory emotional self-efficacy, coping and general intelligence

2021 ◽  
pp. 135910452110406
Author(s):  
Marina Pauletto ◽  
Michele Grassi ◽  
Maria Chiara Passolunghi ◽  
Barbara Penolazzi
Keyword(s):  
Emotional Intelligence ◽  
Self Efficacy ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Coping Styles ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Unique Contribution ◽  
General Intelligence ◽  
Trait Emotional Intelligence ◽  
Psychological Well Being

Given the increase of mental health problems in youth, focusing on the promotion of psychological well-being is essential. Among the variables recognized as linked to children’s psychological well-being, trait emotional intelligence, emotional self-efficacy and coping seem to be crucial, whereas the role played by intelligence is still controversial. In the present study, we explored the combined effects of these variables, aimed at disentangling their unique contribution to psychological well-being of 74 children (41 males, mean age: 9.03 years). We administered verbal and reasoning tests as intelligence measures and self-report questionnaires to assess trait emotional intelligence, regulatory emotional self-efficacy, coping styles, psychological well-being. Correlations revealed two independent clusters of variables: a first cluster including intelligence indexes and a second cluster including psychological well-being, trait emotional intelligence, regulatory emotional self-efficacy and adaptive coping styles. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that only trait emotional intelligence and positive restructuring coping style significantly contributed to psychological well-being. This study highlights that, unlike general intelligence, trait emotional intelligence was associated to psychological well-being, whereas coping styles play a negligible role in explaining this relationship. These findings are valuable in identifying the most relevant factors for children’s adjustment and in enhancing emotion-related aspects in interventions for psychological well-being promotion.

scholarly journals Using Compassionate Mind Training as a Resource in EMDR: A Case Study

2013 ◽  
Vol 7 (4) ◽  
pp. 186-199 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elaine Beaumont ◽  
Caroline J. Hollins Martin
Keyword(s):  
Depression Scale ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Discussion Section ◽  
Self Compassion ◽  
Compassion Scale ◽  
Mind Training ◽  
Current Signature ◽  
Insight Into

This case study examines the contribution of compassionate mind training (CMT) when used as a resource in the eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) treatment of a 58-year-old man, who presented after a recent trauma with psychological distress and somatic symptoms—an inability to sign his name. Self-report questionnaires (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS], Impact of Events Scale-R [IES-R], and Self-Compassion Scale [SCS]) were administered at pretherapy, midtherapy, posttherapy, and 9-month follow-up. EMDR with CMT facilitated recall of forgotten memories about his sister’s traumatic death decades previously, with related emotions of shame and grief, creating insight into how these past events linked to his current signature-signing phobia. Eight sessions of therapy resulted in an elimination of the client’s signature-signing phobia and a reduction in trauma-related symptoms, elevation in mood, and increase in self-compassion. Effects were maintained at 9-month follow-up. The “Discussion” section highlights the value of working collaboratively with clients to best meet their individual needs.

scholarly journals Exploring Self-Compassion and Versions of Masculinity in Men Athletes

2019 ◽  
Vol 41 (6) ◽  
pp. 368-379
Author(s):  
Nathan A. Reis ◽  
Kent C. Kowalski ◽  
Amber D. Mosewich ◽  
Leah J. Ferguson
Keyword(s):  
Gay Men ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Self Esteem ◽  
Negative Evaluation ◽  
Fear Of Negative Evaluation ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Internalized Shame ◽  
Unique Variance ◽  
Self Compassion ◽  
Specific Scenario

Despite a growing emphasis on self-compassion in sport, little research has focused exclusively on men athletes. The purpose of this research was to explore the interaction of self-compassion and diverse versions of masculinity on the psychosocial well-being of men athletes. The authors sampled 172 men athletes (Mage = 22.8 yr) from a variety of sports, using descriptive methodology with self-report questionnaires. Self-compassion was related to most variables (e.g., psychological well-being, fear of negative evaluation, state self-criticism, internalized shame, reactions to a hypothetical sport-specific scenario) in hypothesized directions and predicted unique variance beyond self-esteem across most of those variables, as well as moderated relationships between masculinity and both autonomy and attitudes toward gay men. In addition, self-compassion was differentially related to inclusive and hegemonic masculinity. Our findings support self-compassion as a promising resource for men athletes to buffer emotionally difficult sport experiences.

Emotional recovery following divorce: Will the real self-compassion please stand up?

2021 ◽  
pp. 026540752110472
Author(s):  
Ronald F Chau ◽  
Widyasita N Sawyer ◽  
Jeff Greenberg ◽  
Matthias R Mehl ◽  
David A Sbarra
Keyword(s):  
Positive Association ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Stream Of Consciousness ◽  
Predictive Utility ◽  
Significant Positive Association ◽  
Self Compassion ◽  
Final Study ◽  
Emotional Recovery ◽  
Real Self

Self-compassion is a positive psychological construct associated with heightened well-being, but the construct is largely measured via self-report. In a study of divorcing adults ( N = 120), we sought to replicate and extend prior research on the association between self-rated and observed self-compassion, the linguistic cues associated with self-rated and observed self-compassion, and the predictive utility of observed self-compassion. Untrained observers rated participants’ stream-of-consciousness recordings about their marriage and separation experience. We found adequate consensus among raters of observed self-compassion and a significant, positive association between self-rated and observed self-compassion. Greater self- and observer-rated self-compassion were associated with less distress at baseline; however, only observed self-compassion was associated with less distress at the final study assessment. Discussion centers on the cues observers use to perceive self-compassion in others and the extent to which behavioral manifestations of affect may shape such ratings.

scholarly journals Relationships between emotional schemas, mindfulness, self-compassion and unconditional self-acceptance on the regulation of psychological needs

2020 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Bruno Faustino ◽  
António Branco Vasco ◽  
Ana Nunes Silva ◽  
Telma Marques
Keyword(s):  
Experiential Avoidance ◽  
Clinical Decision Making ◽  
Psychological Symptoms ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Clinical Decision ◽  
Psychological Needs ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Self Compassion ◽  
Self Acceptance

Emotional schemas are pervasive mental structures associated with a wide array of psychological symptoms, while mindfulness, self-compassion, and self-acceptance are viewed as adaptive psychological constructs. Psychological needs may be described as the cornerstone of mental health and well-being. However, a study of the relationships between emotional schemas, mindfulness, self-compassion, and self-acceptance with psychological needs was not performed. For this purpose, 250 subjects (M=20.67, SD=4.88, Male=33, Female=217), were evaluated through self-report questionnaires, in a cross-sectional design. Negative correlations were found between emotional schemas, mindfulness, self-compassion, unconditional self-acceptance, and psychological needs. Symptomatology was positively correlated with emotional schemas. Mindfulness, self-compassion, and unconditional self-acceptance predicted the regulation of psychological needs and mediated the relationship between emotional schemas and psychological needs. Emotional schemas may be associated with a tendency for experiential avoidance of internal reality, self-rejection/shame and self-criticism which may impair the regulation of psychological needs. These variables may be targets of integrative case conceptualization and clinical decision making focused on patient’s timings, styles of communication and needs.

scholarly journals Soothing Your Heart and Feeling Connected: A New Experimental Paradigm to Study the Benefits of Self-Compassion

2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 545-565 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hans Kirschner ◽  
Willem Kuyken ◽  
Kim Wright ◽  
Henrietta Roberts ◽  
Claire Brejcha ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Heart Rate ◽  
Response Pattern ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Opposite Pattern ◽  
Self Compassion ◽  
Psychophysiological Response ◽  
Underlying Processes ◽  
Health And Well Being ◽  
Arousal Reduction

Self-compassion and its cultivation in psychological interventions are associated with improved mental health and well-being. However, the underlying processes for this are not well understood. We randomly assigned 135 participants to study the effect of two short-term self-compassion exercises on self-reported-state mood and psychophysiological responses compared to three control conditions of negative (rumination), neutral, and positive (excitement) valence. Increased self-reported-state self-compassion, affiliative affect, and decreased self-criticism were found after both self-compassion exercises and the positive-excitement condition. However, a psychophysiological response pattern of reduced arousal (reduced heart rate and skin conductance) and increased parasympathetic activation (increased heart rate variability) were unique to the self-compassion conditions. This pattern is associated with effective emotion regulation in times of adversity. As predicted, rumination triggered the opposite pattern across self-report and physiological responses. Furthermore, we found partial evidence that physiological arousal reduction and parasympathetic activation precede the experience of feeling safe and connected.

scholarly journals Mental health and domestic violence in LGB+ persons during lockdown measures in Belgium

2021 ◽  
Vol 24 (2) ◽  
pp. 143-160
Author(s):  
Lotte De Schrijver ◽  
Stefanie De Buyser ◽  
Kasia Uzieblo ◽  
Christophe Vandeviver ◽  
Ines Keygnaert
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Domestic Violence ◽  
Suicidal Ideation ◽  
Help Seeking ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Physical Contact ◽  
Help Seeking Behaviour ◽  
Alcohol And Drug Abuse

Abstract Background: To contain the COVID-19 pandemic, governments worldwide restricted social and physical contact by issuing lockdown and social-distancing measures. Yet, lockdown measures may induce mental health problems and increase the occurrence of domestic violence (DV). We examine mental health and DV in lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, and asexual (LGB+) persons under lockdown. Methods: An online self-report questionnaire on relationships, stress, and aggression was administered to a non-probabilistic sample of participants living in Belgium. Participants were sampled through national media, social media, and snowballing procedures. Occurrence of DV including psychological, physical, and sexual violence, stress, alcohol and drug use, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, self-harming behaviour, and help-seeking behaviour in LGB+ persons during the first four to six weeks of the hygiene and lockdown measures in Belgium were assessed. Results: 383 LGB+ participants were included in the analysis. In addition to high levels of stress, alcohol and drug abuse, suicidal ideation, and self-harming behaviour, a third of LGB+ participants reported at least one incident of DV under lockdown. Conclusion: LGB+ persons have been exposed to DV and experienced lower mental health and well-being during the lockdown related to the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings highlight the possible need for public health measures and sociocultural changes preventing DV and improving mental health during lockdown in LGB+ persons.

scholarly journals Mental Health of Medical Workers in Japan during COVID-19: Relationships with Loneliness, Hope and Self-Compassion

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yasuhiro Kotera ◽  
Akihoko Ozaki ◽  
Hirotomo Miyatake ◽  
Chie Tsunetoshi ◽  
Yoshitaka Nishikawa ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Regression Analysis ◽  
General Population ◽  
Protective Factors ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Poor Mental Health ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Current Crisis ◽  
Self Compassion

Abstract The current pandemic of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has negatively impacted medical workers’ mental health in many countries including Japan. Although research identified poor mental health of medical workers in COVID-19, protective factors for their mental health remain to be appraised. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate relationships between mental health problems, loneliness, hope and self-compassion among Japanese medical workers, and compare with the general population. Online self-report measures regarding those four constructs were completed by 142 medical workers and 138 individuals in the general population. T-tests and multiple regression analysis were performed. Medical workers had higher levels of mental health problems and loneliness, and lower levels of hope and self-compassion than the general population. Loneliness was the strongest predictor of mental health problems in the medical workers. Findings suggest that Japanese medical workplaces may benefit from targeting workplace loneliness to protect staff mental health from the current crisis.

A feasibility study on a novel well-being intervention for university students

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-5
Author(s):  
E. Hunt ◽  
L. Coombes
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
College Students ◽  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Time Use ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Universal Time ◽  
First Year ◽  
Evaluation Questionnaire ◽  
Self Compassion

Abstract Objectives: Challenging transitions, increased stress and mental ill health can affect students’ academic performance and their capacity to remain in higher education. Prevention and early treatment of mental health problems in college students is therefore a key public health priority, nationally and internationally. Developing a range of evidence-based interventions targeting the mental health of students is critical. We examined the feasibility and acceptability of a new universal time use and well-being intervention, the ‘Everyday Matters: Healthy Habits for University Life’ digital badge (EMDB), a co-curricular micro-credential for first-year college students. Methods: This study used a single-arm, pre–post design for first-year undergraduate students. The EMDB comprised eight 1-hour lunchtime sessions on brain development and time-use habits across the 24 hours of the day including sleep, self-care, leisure, study and work. Validated measures of occupational competence and value, mental well-being, sleep health, mindset, self-compassion and gratitude were completed, along with an evaluation questionnaire. Results: Eight first-year undergraduate students completed the demographic questionnaire and pre- and post- measures, with one additional student completing only the evaluation questionnaire. There was significantly improved levels of well-being, self-compassion and growth mindset following the intervention. Many of the challenges reported by participants related to occupational issues such as managing finances and having a satisfying routine. Participants appreciated the practical relevance and scientific underpinnings of the programme content. The sense of belonging within the group and having insightful conversations with other group members were particularly valued by participants. Conclusions: This study offers preliminary evidence that an occupational therapy based universal time-use and well-being intervention was feasible to deliver and acceptable to first-year undergraduate students. The results of this study and the participant acceptability support further development and evaluation of the EMDB intervention.

scholarly journals Explanations for the increase in mental health problems in UK reserve forces who have served in Iraq

2007 ◽  
Vol 190 (6) ◽  
pp. 484-489 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tess Browne ◽  
Lisa Hull ◽  
Oded Horn ◽  
Margaret Jones ◽  
Dominic Murphy ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Iraq War ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Common Mental Disorders ◽  
Armed Forces ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Physical Symptoms ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Traumatic Experiences ◽  
Post Traumatic Stress ◽  
Unit Cohesion

BackgroundDeployment to the 2003 Iraq War was associated with ill health in reserve armed forces personnel.AimsTo investigate reasons for the excess of ill health in reservists.MethodUK personnel who were deployed to the 2003 Iraq War completed a health survey about experiences on deployment to Iraq. Health status was measured using self-report of common mental disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), fatigue, physical symptoms and well-being.ResultsReservists were older and of higher rank than the regular forces. They reported higher exposure to traumatic experiences, lower unit cohesion, more problems adjusting to homecoming and lower marital satisfaction. Most health outcomes could be explained by role, experience of traumatic events or unit cohesion in theatre. PTSD symptoms were the one exception and were paradoxically most powerfully affected by differences in problems at home rather than events in Iraq.ConclusionsThe increased ill-health of reservists appears to be due to experiences on deployment and difficulties with homecoming.

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