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The Meaning and Experiences of Self-Compassion Among Adolescents
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- Author / Creator
- Klingle, Kirsten, E
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Self-compassion is a growing area of interest for researchers in the field of psychology and other helping professions as it is highly correlated with overall wellbeing (Neff, 2003). However, much of the research to date has focused on self-compassion among adults and from a quantitative lens. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to gain an understanding of the experiences of self-compassion among adolescents by exploring these experiences in-depth. Six adolescents were interviewed about their conceptualizations and experiences of self-compassion. Responses were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for common themes using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Based on participants’ descriptions of self-compassion, eight themes were developed: putting oneself at the center, maintaining a positive outlook, engaging in pleasurable activities, connecting positively with others, working on self-improvement, upholding one’s public image, accepting oneself, and experiencing emotional balance. These findings may contribute to self-compassion research by helping elucidate the meaning and experiences of self-compassion from the adolescent perspective. In light of the findings, implications for counsellors, directions for future research, and limitations of the study are discussed.
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- Subjects / Keywords
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- Graduation date
- Fall 2014
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- Type of Item
- Thesis
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- Degree
- Master of Education
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- License
- This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Libraries with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.