Kathryn A. Birnie

2 papers in the library · 751 citations · publishing 2009-2010

Papers

Exploring self‐compassion and empathy in the context of mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR)

Stress and Health March 15, 2010 Kathryn A. Birnie, Michael Speca, Linda E. Carlson 599 citations

A community sample participated in an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme. After the programme, participants showed significant reductions in stress symptoms and mood disturbance, along with increases in mindfulness, spirituality, and self-compassion. For empathy, perspective taking increased significantly and personal distress decreased significantly, but empathic concern did not change. Changes in self-compassion were linked to changes in mindfulness. Self-compassion and certain aspects of empathy were strongly associated with psychological well-being. The findings suggest MBSR can enhance self-compassion and specific empathy components.

DOI: 10.1002/smi.1305

Psychological benefits for cancer patients and their partners participating in mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR)

Psycho-oncology November 16, 2009 Kathryn A. Birnie, Sheila N. Garland, Linda E. Carlson 152 citations

An 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program for 21 couples where one partner had cancer led to significant reductions in mood disturbance and symptoms of stress—including muscle tension, neurological/gastrointestinal, and upper respiratory symptoms—for both patients and their partners. Mindfulness levels significantly increased in both groups. After the program, partners' mood disturbance scores were positively correlated with patients' stress symptoms and negatively correlated with patients' mindfulness levels. The program improved psychological functioning and mindfulness for both members of the couple.

DOI: 10.1002/pon.1651 Anxiety Mindfulness-based stress reduction Mood Clinical psychology +6