Work

Compassion focused imagery reduces fears of compassion irrespective of attachment.

Year: 2024

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: The present study evaluated the efficacy of a brief compassion-focused imagery intervention for reducing fears of compassion. This study also examined whether individual differences in attachment would influence treatment effectiveness. We randomly assigned a nonclinical sample of 125 community-dwelling adults to a control group or an intervention group. Those in the intervention group completed a brief intervention involving daily compassionate imagery exercises for 1 week. Those who completed the intervention demonstrated significant reductions in fears of compassion for others, fears of compassion from others, and fears of self-compassion, irrespective of differences in attachment. These findings support the efficacy of compassion-focused imagery exercises in reducing fears of compassion across attachment patterns, suggesting their potential value for enhancing mental well-being. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

Source: Journal of Counseling Psychology

DOI: 10.1037/cou0000770

Authors: Deanna Varley, Chase S. Sherwell, James N. Kirby

Institution: The University of Queensland

Language: English

Topic: Mindfulness and Compassion Interventions

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: University of Queensland