Testing the effectiveness and acceptability of a digitally distributed Compassion Focused Therapy intervention for acquired brain injury using single case experimental design

Abstract

Purpose of Article. ABI results in a range of psychological difficulties such as identity changes and low acceptance of the limitations following injury. These factors are not well addressed by existing treatment approaches. Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) has been promising for the ABI population in case and naturalistic studies, but its efficacy has not been studied experimentally. Materials and Methods. The present study used a single case experimental design (SCED) to investigate if a digitally adapted guided self-help CFT protocol increases self-compassion and decreases self-criticism. In addition to being acceptable to participants and facilitating successful achievement of personal goals. Five Participants completed a five week-digitally distributed CFT course which used a mixture of psychoeducation and compassionate imagery exercises. Results and conclusion. The study found no significant change from the baseline to intervention phase on scores of self-compassion and self-criticism. Visual analysis indicated variability in scores during the intervention as compared to the baseline for the majority of participants. Pre and post scores of self-compassion and self-criticism reliably changed in line with predictions. All participants completed the study and feedback suggested the intervention was acceptable and supportive to their recovery from the ABI. Goal-directed behaviour showed a small increase during the study. Issues around the length of the intervention and measure of self-compassion and self-criticism are discussed, as well as implications for future research and clinical practice.