Exploring the Cross-cultural Applicability of a Brief Compassionate Mind Training: a Study Comparing Sri Lankan and
Lasara Kariyawasam1, Margarita Ononaiye2, Chris Irons3
1University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, University Road, Southampton, SO17 1BJ UK.
Objectives:
Compassionate Mind Training (CMT) is a therapeutic approach proven to be effective for reducing distress and increasing well-being in clinical and non-clinical populations. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of a short-term, online version of the CMT on compassion, distress, and well-being in a cross-cultural, non-clinical sample of Sri Lankan and UK people.
Method:
A randomized controlled trial with pre-, post-measurements, and a 2-week follow-up was conducted using CMT (n = 21 Sri Lankan, n = 73 UK) and wait-list control (n = 17 Sri Lankan, n = 54 UK) groups. The intervention effects were investigated using a series of repeated-measures ANOVAs using intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses.
Results:
The 2-week CMT was effective in increasing all aspects of compassion in both Sri Lankan and UK people. In addition, some cross-cultural similarities and differences (in the factors affecting compassion) were present in the improvements following CMT between the two countries, which were maintained at a 2-week follow-up.
Conclusion:
This study provides promising evidence for the efficacy and cross-cultural applicability of CMT for reducing distress and increasing well-being.
Related Concept Videos
The Scientific Method
Empathy
Community Based Intervention
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...
Coping Strategies: Emotion Focused
Stereotype Content Model


