Abstract

Objectives

To date, there is limited evidence suggesting a brief self-compassion intervention is effective in a more diverse student population. The aim of the present study was to examine the effectiveness of a brief self-compassion group intervention in promoting mental wellbeing in London university students.

Methods

A mixed-method study was conducted. Thirty participants were assigned to either an intervention that introduce self-compassion (n = 18) or a waitlist control group (n = 12). The
intervention consisted of three weekly sessions. To measure improvements in mental wellbeing, participants completed a set of outcome measures at 3 timepoints. Semi-structured interviews were conducted following the group intervention.

Results

Results indicated that the self-compassion intervention led to significant improvements in life satisfaction, self-kindness, self-judgement, isolation and overidentification in comparison to
the waitlist control group. Participants reported positive experiences with the intervention, especially being in a group and highlighted the key mechanism of action in the process of
developing self-compassion.

Conclusions

The findings suggested that the brief self-compassion intervention was effective in promoting wellbeing in a diverse student population.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Psychology School of Health & Psychological Sciences > School of Health & Psychological Sciences Doctoral Theses Doctoral Theses

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