Jessica R. Williamson, Ph.D.

Research Interests

Self-Compassion and Health

Self-compassion consists of three components: (1) Mindfulness, (2) Self-kindness, and (3) Common humanity. People who are high in trait self-compassion are less likely to overidentify (exaggerate) their negative experiences or downplay their pain. They are also less likely to engage in harsh self-criticism when faced with aspects of themselves or their behavior they dislike. Finally, they are less likely to feel that they are alone in their negative experiences (that is, they realize that the bad things they go through are part of the human experience and that other people have probably experienced the same or similar thing).   

Research has actually shown that self-compassion inductions (when compared to self-esteem inductions) increase motivation for improvement when recalling experiences related to failure. High levels of trait self-compassion are also related to lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. In general, self-compassion is a healthy way of relating to oneself, of restructuring negative cognitive process, and an important skill set in treating oneself with kindness. We often say such harsh things to ourselves that we wouldn't even say to someone we dislike. Kindness is a better motivator than harsh self-criticism, which only serves to increase stress (and chronic stress has negative cardiovascular implications). Isn't it time you were kinder to yourself? Love yourself like you would your best friend!