Exploring Trauma-Related Shame, Early Experiences & Self-Compassion
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the effects of childhood memories of warmth & safeness and self-compassion on trauma-related shame in adults with Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD).
IRAS ID
327850
Contact name
Frances Ryan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 8 days
Research summary
There is a growing body of research that suggests trauma-related shame can predict symptom severity in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) & Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD). However, we do not fully understand why some people experience more trauma-related shame than others. Shame can make people feel as though they are to blame or at fault. This can make accessing trauma-focussed psychological therapies difficult as shame can be a barrier to disclosure and help-seeking. Psychological theories underline childhood experiences of warmth and safeness (which influence our ability to feel soothed and safe in adult relationships) and how compassionate we are (towards ourselves in times of distress) as factors that can potentially buffer against shame.
This study aims to understand:
(1) Whether self-compassion and childhood memories of warmth and safeness account for levels of trauma-related shame experienced by adults with Complex PTSD.
(2) Whether there are significant differences in trauma-related shame in adults with Complex PTSD who have higher and lower levels of self-compassion.
The International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ), that measures Complex PTSD symptoms, will be used to screen for eligible participants. If eligible, participants will be invited to complete measures of trauma-related shame, childhood memories of warmth and safeness, self-compassion and symptoms of depression.
Clinical Sample
Patients at Berkshire Traumatic Stress Service (main research site) complete these measures as part of routine clinical care.
Participant Identification Centre (PIC)
Clinicians from Southwest London and St George's Traumatic Stress Service will identify potential participants and signpost to the study materials online. The ITQ will act as a screener for eligible participants.
Community Sample
The study recruitment poster and links will be advertised on media channels and through charities. Participants will access measures online. The ITQ will act as a screener for eligible participants.
Power analyses suggest data from 128 participants (minimum) is needed to confidently interpret the findings using a robust scientific method.
REC name
North East - Tyne & Wear South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/NE/0166
Date of REC Opinion
6 Sep 2024
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion