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Christen Aiguier, PsyD, is a 2023 graduate of the PsyD Program in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University, Seattle.

Dissertation Committee

Christopher Heffner, PsyD, PhD, Committee Chair

William Heusler, PsyD, Committee Member

Alejaandra Suarez, PhD, Committee Member

Keywords

compassion fatigue, Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, FFMQ, mental health professional, Reactions to Research Participation Questionnaire–Revised, RRPQ-R, self-compassion, Self-Compassion Scale, SCS, Professional Quality of Life Version 5, ProQOL-5, survey, terminal illness, adult (18+), trait mindfulness

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2023

Abstract

This quantitative study explores the relationships among trait mindfulness, self-compassion, and compassion fatigue (CF) in mental health professionals working with clients with a terminal illness. The Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), Self-Compassion Scale, and Quality of Life Version 5 were used to explore these facets through linear multiple regression analysis. The Reactions to Research Participation Questionnaire–Revised was used to explore the cost–benefit ratio based on participant perceptions of the research experience. Participants (N = 43) self-selected from emailed invitations sent to members of professional organizations. Data was analyzed using multiple linear regression. Significant correlations included individual relationships between elevated trait mindfulness levels, self-compassion levels, percentage of session content focused on a client’s terminal illness, and FFMQ nonjudge subscale scores with lower CF levels. Additional outcomes also identified significant support for a correlation between higher FFMQ observe subscale scores with higher CF levels, and a moderating effect from gender in the correlation between trait mindfulness and CF levels. Generally, participants reported perceived benefits outweighed perceived costs of contributing to this project. Results warrant additional research to explore significant findings and potential intervention strategies for bolstering trait mindfulness and self-compassion levels among mental health professionals working with clients with a terminal illness.

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Christen Aiguier, PsyD, 2023

ORCID ID# 0000-0002-6248-4659

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