Why would I want to be more self‐compassionate? A qualitative study of the pros and cons to cultivating self‐compassion in individuals with anorexia nervosa. (26th December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kelly, Allison; Katan, Aleece; Sosa Hernandez, Linda; Nightingale, Bethany; Geller, Josie
• Is Part Of: British journal of clinical psychology. Volume 60:Number 1(2021)
• Page Start: 99
• Page End: 115
• Publication Date: 2020-12-26
• Subjects: anorexia nervosa -- eating disorders -- fear of self‐compassion -- qualitative research -- self‐compassion -- transtheoretical model; 616.89
• DOI: 10.1111/bjc.12275
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0144-6657

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: Although self‐compassion facilitates eating disorder symptom remission, individuals with eating disorders are fearful of developing it and higher fears of self‐compassion are associated with poorer treatment outcomes. In‐depth exploration of individuals' pros and cons of behaviour change is generally helpful at resolving ambivalence; however, no research has examined the pros and cons individuals with eating disorders perceive to be associated with developing self‐compassion, limiting our understanding of their personal experiences when confronted with self‐compassion. Given the research suggesting higher resistance to self‐compassion development in individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN), the present study used qualitative methods to gain a deeper understanding of their perceived pros and cons to self‐compassion. Methods: Thirty‐seven women with typical (64%) and atypical (36%) AN signed up for a study on self‐help strategies for daily distress. Upon learning that the intervention would entail cultivating self‐compassion, they identified their perceived pros and cons of developing self‐compassion by typing them out. Results: Thematic analysis was used to extract themes. Three superordinate cons and four superordinate pros of self‐compassion emerged. Perceived cons were as follows: self‐compassion leading to personal shortcomings; apprehension and doubt about the efficacy of self‐compassion; and emotional challenges associated with developing self‐compassion. Perceived pros were as follows: improved health; personal development (e.g., growth, coping); improved outlook; and enhanced social relationships. Conclusions: These findings reveal the various advantages and disadvantages that women with AN perceive to be associated with developing self‐compassion. Results may help clinicians work more sensitively and effectively when trying to cultivate self‐compassion in patients who have AN. Practitioner points: This research suggests that patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) perceive various disadvantages to cultivating self‐compassion, but also certain advantages. By familiarizing themselves with the pros and cons to self‐compassion identified by individuals with AN, clinicians may be able to more effectively listen to and communicate with their patients about ambivalence about self‐compassion development. Clinicians may want to listen for and explore concerns in their AN patients that self‐compassion will lead to personal shortcomings, fail to be beneficial, and be emotionally challenging. Clinicians may want to listen for and help patients elaborate upon their beliefs about how self‐compassion might benefit their outlook, health, personal development, and relationships.