Learning to Be Kind to Me: A Compassion-Focused Group for Adolescents With Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is often characterised by high levels of shame and self-criticism. Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) is a transdiagnostic intervention targeting these emotional vulnerabilities, yet its application in adolescent eating disorder services remains underexplored.

This project examined a group-based CFT intervention delivered within an Intensive Day Treatment Programme at a specialist, outpatient child and adolescent eating disorder service. Quantitative outcomes were assessed using the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) and Adolescent Shame-Proneness Scale (ASPS). Qualitative feedback was also collected and analysed using conversational content analysis.

Twenty-eight adolescents with restrictive eating disorders completed a brief CFT group between April 2024 and February 2025. Statistically significant improvements were observed in self-compassion (particularly reductions in uncompassionate self-responding) and subscales related to self-judgement, isolation, and over-identification (all p < 0.001). No significant changes were found in shame-proneness (p = 0.107). Qualitative analysis identified themes of increased emotional insight, reduced self-criticism, and appreciation for the group's sensory and reflective elements. Some participants reported challenges related to session length and the application of self-compassion in daily life.

Findings suggest that CFT may enhance self-compassion in adolescents with AN and may serve as a valuable adjunct to existing treatment pathways. Further controlled trials are recommended to evaluate long-term outcomes and optimise integration into routine care.