The Impact Of An Online Self-Compassion Intervention On Thwarted Belongingness And Perceived Burdensomeness
Abstract
Interventions that target thwarted belongingness (TB) and perceived burdensomeness (PB) may reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviours (Joiner, 2005). Self-compassion describes being open and kind towards oneself (Neff, 2003a) and is negatively associated with TB, PB, and suicidality. The current research examined the impact of a brief, virtual, self-compassion intervention on TB and PB in a young adult sample. Study 1 included an open trial to examine initial effectiveness and acceptability of the intervention. Self-compassion significantly increased over time; however, there were no changes in TB or PB. Study 2 included a randomized controlled trial comparing two control conditions to the intervention condition. Self-compassion significantly increased, and TB significantly decreased over time across all conditions. Contrary to hypotheses, the self-compassion intervention did not impact the outcome variables any more than the control condition. Despite limited significant findings, the current study contributes to a growing literature on brief, accessible interventions.