Exploring the emotional experiences of young women with chronic pain: The potential role of self-compassion. (March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barnes, Alexandra; Adam, Margo EK; Eke, Abimbola O; Ferguson, Leah J
• Is Part Of: Journal of health psychology. Volume 26:Number 3(2021)
• Page Start: 367
• Page End: 377
• Publication Date: 2021-03
• Subjects: coping -- narrative -- pain -- photography -- qualitative -- self-attitudes; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; 613.019
• DOI: 10.1177/1359105318816509
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-1053

Abstract

Chronic pain is multidimensional and includes an emotional dimension in addition to the physical and cognitive dimensions. Self-compassion, being touched by and open to one's own suffering, has been identified as a useful resource during difficult experiences. The purpose of this narrative inquiry was to explore the role of self-compassion in the emotional experiences of women with chronic pain. Seven women participated in focus groups, reflective photo voice and one-on-one interviews. Three collective narratives were generated highlighting the women's sources of emotional pain and suggesting self-compassion as a constructive approach to manage the emotional dimension of chronic pain.