Compassion mindfulness (loving-kindness + compassion meditation) is a third-wave intervention for social anxiety with growing evidence. It combines mindfulness (non-judgmental attention to the present moment) with deliberate practice of compassion toward oneself and others. Hofmann et al. demonstrated efficacy in social anxiety comparable to CBT with less experiential avoidance. Especially useful in people with high self-criticism or where pure CBT has not worked.
Concept origin
Hofmann SG, Grossman P, Hinton DE. (2011). Loving-kindness and compassion meditation: Potential for psychological interventions. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(7), 1126-1132. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2011.07.003
How it manifests
- ▸ Applicable as complementary intervention (not a symptom)
- ▸ Useful in people with intense self-criticism
Therapeutic approach
Structured 8-week practice: (1) weeks 1-2: breath mindfulness (focus on the body), (2) weeks 3-4: loving-kindness directed at oneself, (3) weeks 5-6: loving-kindness directed at a loved one, (4) weeks 7-8: loving-kindness directed at neutral and difficult people. Brief daily journal (5 min) of what was observed. Compatible with CBT as an adjunct module.
Related concepts
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