To Örebro University

Introduction: Chronic pain affects people worldwide. Depression and anxiety are common comorbid problems and are many times associated with pervasive problems with self-image, shame and self-criticism. Recently, Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) has received increasing clinical and scientific interest as a means to counteract shame, self-criticism and isolation. CFT integrates influences from affective neuroscience, Buddhism, attachment theory, evolution theory and cognitive behavioral theories. The focus in CFT is on increasing individuals' ability to experience warmth, acceptance and community in relation to themselves as well as to and from others. Therefore, CFT may be a promising approach to address self-criticism and shame in chronic patients with comorbid emotional problems.

Method: This study employs a Single Case Experimental Design (N=6) to examine whether a 7 week, Internet delivered, CFT can lead to increased self-compassion, reduced shame, self-criticism, depression and anxiety symptoms in patients with chronic pain and comorbid anxiety and depression.

Results: The results showed treatments effects on all variables of varying magnitude.

Discussion: The results add to the growing body of research that CFT affects several problem areas, and can be delivered via the Internet. While the results are encouraging, variations in treatment results and methodological restrictions indicate need for further research.