The relational compassion scale: development and validation of a new self rated scale for the assessment of self-other compassion
Year: 2008
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Objective: Previous research on the assessment of compassion focussed on self-reported self-compassion measures. This study reported on the development and evaluation of a new compassion scale that expands the previous conceptualisation by incorporating relational aspects of compassion. Methods: In an online study, 201 participants completed the relational compassion scale and a random sample of four questionnaires comprising measures of self-compassion, emotional approach coping, self-attacking/self-criticism and attachment. Moreover, the criterion-based validity of the scale was tested with an extreme group comparison design for which 30 Arts and Engineering students were recruited. Results: Consistent with a relational conceptualisation of compassion, findings supported a four-factor structure of the measure. Furthermore, the scale was positively correlated with measures of self-compassion, emotional approach coping, reassured self and a secure attachment style. However, the self to other compassion factor of the scale did not correlate with the self-attacking/self-criticism scale. Conclusions: Findings suggest that compassion can be conceptualised from within a relational framework. Moreover, this study indicates a need for further research investigating the relationship between self- and other-compassion in clinical samples and the interaction between different affect regulation systems.
Author: Thomas Häcker
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1578139653