Content area
Abstract
Extensive research concludes that self-compassion, conceptualized as consisting of self-kindness, mindfulness, and common humanity, is a healthy alternative to both self-criticism and high self-esteem (Neff, 2003b). It has been argued that Neff’s theory is not based on a basic science of behavior change, limiting its ability to inform treatment development (Yadavaia & Hayes, 2013). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an acceptance-based behavioral treatment modality that is informed by a basic science of language and cognition. The present study attempts to address these issues by taking a contextual behavioral science approach (CBS) and looking at self-compassion as a means to psychological flexibility with a substance abusing population.
Various forms of substance abuse are prevalent, and relationships between substance abuse and both experiential avoidance and decreased self-compassion have been documented. In the substance abusing population many individuals attempt to avoid or mitigate self-criticism, as well as criticism from others. As a result, individuals frequently use drugs and alcohol for the purpose of controlling or eliminating these unwanted thoughts, feelings, sensations, or other private experiences (Wilson, Hayes, & Byrd, 2000).
Thus, the present study is a randomized waitlist-controlled trial of the efficacy of a 6-week ACT treatment protocol targeting self-compassion developed for the substance abusing population. Participants were 20 adult, females (mean age = 37; ranging from age 25-58) diagnosed with a substance use disorder, who were participating in a secured halfway house program in Louisville, Kentucky. Assessments were completed before and after the treatment as well as at 2-week follow-up. When the treatment concluded with the treatment group, the control group received the treatment. Active treatment was significantly superior to control in improvements in self-compassion, but not psychological flexibility. A small, immediate gain was noted at post-assessment for the treatment group, although a larger increase was shown at follow-up, indicating continued growth in psychological flexibility after treatment concluded. It should be noted that the treatment group was significantly higher in psychological flexibility compared to the control group at pre-assessment. When the control group was given the treatment, significant improvements were found for both self-compassion and psychological flexibility and significant decreases were found for believability of reasons for using and likelihood to use based on self-report.
