DOI: 10.5176/2251-1865_CBP14.28
Authors: Ikuo Ishimura, Masahiro Yamaguchi, Toshiaki Nomura, Nozomi Sukigara
Abstract:
The present study developed a self-compassionate task and, during a four-week period, investigated its effectiveness for enhancing self-compassion among Japanese college students. Study 1 examined change in scores regarding authenticity, self-esteem, multiple mood states, and interpersonal relationships, by comparing an intervention group (N = 41; M = 21.34, SD = 5.71) with a control group (N = 40; M = 20.25, SD = 0.95). Study 2 examined the task’s effects on depressive symptoms, such as rumination and hopelessness, by comparing an intervention group (N = 24; M = 27.75, SD = 18.72) with a control group (N = 56; M = 20.41, SD = 2.76). Study 1 found that in addition to being effective in improving multiple mood states, the self-compassionate task enabled students to recognize their authenticity and indicated the possibility of contact with their true selves in interpersonal relationships. Study 2 found that the intervention group reported significant rise self-compassion, problem-solving thoughts and hope; while rumination and depression decreased after the intervention. Thus, the self-compassionate task developed in this research contributed to improvement in well being among Japanese college students.
Keywords: Self-compassion; positive psychological intervention; sense of authenticity; rumination; depression
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