Young people's experiences of self-criticism and compassion-based interventions

Abstract

Section A
Objective: There is promising research amongst adult populations regarding the effectiveness and acceptability of compassion-based interventions. This review aimed to explore young people’s experiences of compassion-based interventions as at present there is a lack of qualitative research pertaining to their acceptability amongst this population.

Methods: A systematic search of six databases was conducted to identify studies concerned with young people’s experience of a compassion-based intervention, yielding nine qualitative studies. The studies were reviewed using a quality assessment tool and key methodological concerns were discussed. The study findings were synthesised thematically.

Results: Five themes were identified: ‘Yes! I’m not alone – acknowledging our common humanity’; ‘Easier said than done: Compassion as a simple concept in theory but difficult in practice’, ‘Turning inwards – increased awareness and acceptance as agents of change’, ‘Tools and strategies learnt’, and ‘Making it work for young people’.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that compassion-based interventions are an appropriate tool to support the wellbeing of young people. Sharing personal experiences and engaging with their inner critic was of value to participants. Implications and recommendations for clinical practice and future research are discussed.

Section B
Objective: Self-criticism is thought to contribute to the development of psychological difficulties in adolescence. This study aimed to explore experiences of self-criticism amongst young people accessing children and young people’s mental health services. It was hoped this study would provide useful insights for clinicians on how self-criticism is experienced by this population, allowing for developments in clinical practice.

Methods: Eight young people were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) method.

Results: Six themes were generated (of which three contained subthemes): ‘Self-criticism as an unstoppable force’, ‘Warped reality’, ‘Impossible standards’, ‘Parts of the self in conflict. ‘The tipping point between tough love and total hostility’, and ‘Social connection as a threat and saviour’.

Conclusion: This study provided insight regarding how self-criticism impacts on relationships, education, and wellbeing from the perspective of young people. Participants discussed factors that can exacerbate self-criticism, including moving school, exams, bullying, and social media use, as well as discussing ways they found self-criticism helpful.
The results provide support for the view that self-criticism is an appropriate target for psychological intervention for adolescents. Implications and recommendations for clinical practice and future research are discussed.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	English