The Effects of Caregiver Self-Compassion on Children’s Mental Health
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Authors
Schultz, Heather
Issue Date
2024-08-19
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
self-compassion , children , mental health , caregivers , parents , parenting , compassion , intergenerational , attachment , child , family , family therapy , compassion therapy
Alternative Title
Abstract
Previous research has demonstrated the impressive mental and physical health benefits of self- compassion for individuals. However, it is not yet well understood how individual self- compassion may positively impact others in close relationship to the individual. One of the most important relationships in family systems therapy is the caregiver-child relationship. Through the lens of attachment theory, it is understood that caregivers have great influence on children's mental health and overall wellbeing. This study sought to explore the research question: How does caregiver self-compassion impact children’s mental health? Caregiver self-compassion was examined for its impact on caregivers' internal and external factors and how these may act as pathways to exert influence on factors related to children’s mental health. Using a systematic review process, ten articles were identified as fitting the scope established by the research question. These articles were reviewed and analyzed in order to identify key themes. Three themes that emerged highlighted some ways in which caregiver self-compassion may impact children’s mental health. These themes included the internal influence of caregiver self- compassion for caregivers, the external influence of caregiver self-compassion on parenting approaches, and the potential for caregiver self-compassion to be used as an intervention within a family system for improving children’s mental health. The articles were also critiqued for overall methodological practices and ethical approaches, including strengths and weaknesses. Lastly, clinical practices were recommended based on the research findings, including key takeaways and possible intervention practices for including caregiver self-compassion as a component of parenting programs aimed at improving children's mental health.