The relational compassion scale: development and validation of a new self rated scale for the assessment of self-other compassion

Hacker, Thomas (2008) The relational compassion scale: development and validation of a new self rated scale for the assessment of self-other compassion. D Clin Psy thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

Objective: Previous research on the assessment of compassion focussed on self-reported self-compassion measures. This study reported on the development and evaluation of a new compassion scale that expands the previous conceptualisation by incorporating relational aspects of compassion.
Methods: In an online study, 201 participants completed the relational compassion scale and a random sample of four questionnaires comprising measures of self-compassion, emotional approach coping, self-attacking/self-criticism and attachment. Moreover, the criterion-based validity of the scale was tested with an extreme group comparison design for which 30 Arts and Engineering students were recruited.
Results: Consistent with a relational conceptualisation of compassion, findings supported a four-factor structure of the measure. Furthermore, the scale was positively correlated with measures of self-compassion, emotional approach coping, reassured self and a secure attachment style. However, the self to other compassion factor of the scale did not correlate with the self-attacking/self-criticism scale.
Conclusions: Findings suggest that compassion can be conceptualised from within a relational framework. Moreover, this study indicates a need for further research investigating the relationship between self- and other-compassion in clinical samples and the interaction between different affect regulation systems.

• Item Type: Thesis (D Clin Psy)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Keywords: relational compassion, social mentality theory, affect regulation
• Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
• Colleges/Schools: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing
• Supervisor's Name: Gumley, Prof A.
• Date of Award: 2008
• Depositing User: Mr T Hacker
• Unique ID: glathesis:2008-462
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 16 Oct 2009
• Last Modified: 10 Dec 2012 13:18
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/462