A Template Thematic Analysis of Self-Concept and Self-Compassion in People Living With Endometriosis: Analysis of Qualitative Survey Responses.
Kristi Mazalin, Subhadra Evans, Leesa Van Niekerk
PMID 39618124WHAT IT FOUND
Among 157 people, written responses more often described self-judgement, self-isolation and being consumed by symptoms than self-kindness, shared humanity or acceptance.
This describes self-concept, not evidence that compassion-focused therapy works.
Key findings
01Fifty-four participants (34%) gave responses consistent with self-judgement, while nine participants (5.5%) gave responses consistent with self-kindness.
02Thirty-three participants (21%) reported self-isolation, and four participants reported common humanity.
03Forty-nine respondents described suffering, anticipation of future suffering or difficulty engaging in the present, and nine respondents described neutrality and openness.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for RNs
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What it does not show
The sample was mostly heterosexual, cis-gendered and partnered, so relationship and sexual themes may not apply to gender or sexually diverse people or casual relationships. The survey did not collect race information and required English, so cultural or racial factors cannot be assessed. The sample was mostly Australian (92%), so findings may not apply elsewhere. The data came from one open-ended question with answers averaging 39 words, so responses could not be clarified or explored as in an interview. Endometriosis diagnosis was self-reported, not confirmed from medical records in this analysis. The study did not consult patients or the public when writing the survey question. It describes themes from written responses and does not test whether self-compassion therapy improves self-concept, quality of life or symptoms.
Declared interests
Leesa Van Niekerk is a member of the Clinical Advisory Board for Endometriosis Australia and the National Endometriosis Clinical and Scientific Trials Network Steering Committee; both are stated to have provided no financial contributions. No conflict of interest was declared by Kristi Mazalin and Subhadra Evans.
The easy way to misread this
Do not conclude that self-compassion therapy improves self-concept or quality of life. This study analysed written survey responses and did not test a therapy or measure patient outcomes.