Primary objectiveThe purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of perceived personal responsibility for an acquired ABI (ABI) on shame, and whether self-compassion moderates this relationship. We hypothesised that people who perceived themselves to be responsible for their injury would have high levels of shame and poorer recovery outcomes.
Research designA mixed-methods design was employed using both standardised measures and a series of open questions.
1Methods and procedures 66 participants with ABI were included in the analysis. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, correlations, multiple regression and thematic analysis.
Main outcomes and resultsSignificant relationships were found between self-compassion, shame, anxiety and depression, but perceived responsibility for ABI was not correlated with any examined variables. Due to issues with the measurement of responsibility, it was not possible to complete all proposed forms of analysis. The thematic analysis revealed the ways participants' injuries affected their perceived level of functioning, its consequences for sense of self, shame and self-compassion.
ConclusionsThis study concluded that people with ABI might experience shame with respect to the injury's impact on functioning. Study limitations and implications for providing therapeutic interventions such as Compassion Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are discussed.
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