The Christian Psychologist: Mental Health for 21st Century Christ Followers

Episode 14: Compassion

Episode Summary

In the 14th episode, Dr. Knabb explores the topic of compassion, including views from secular psychology, its relevance for mental health, research on compassion, and interventions to increase compassion. In addition, a biblical view is discussed, drawing from both Scripture and Christian spiritual writings. Finally, a 10-minute practice is offered to help 21st century Christ followers cultivate compassion by drawing upon God's mercy in response to psychological suffering in contemporary society.

Episode Notes

References

Germer, C. (2009). The mindful path to self-compassion: Freeing yourself from destructive thoughts and emotions. The Guilford Press.

Gilbert, P. (2010). Compassion focused therapy: Distinctive features. Routledge.

Kirby, J. (2016). Compassion interventions: The programmes, the evidence, and implications for research and practice. Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice. Advanced online publication.

Knabb, J. (2018). The compassion-based workbook for Christian clients: Finding freedom from shame and negative self judgments. Routledge.

Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.

Knabb, J., & Vazquez, V. (2018). A randomized controlled trial of a two-week Internet-based contemplative prayer program for Christians with daily stress. Spirituality in Clinical Practice, 5, 37-53.

MacBeth, A., & Gumley, A. (2012). Exploring compassion: A meta-analysis of the association between self-compassion and psychopathology. Clinical Psychology Review, 32, 545-552.

Mathewes-Green, F. (2009). The Jesus prayer: The ancient desert prayer that tunes the heart of God. Paraclete Press.

Nikodimos. (Ed.). (1782). Philokalia. R.P. Pryne.

Stahl, B., & Goldstein, E. (2010). A mindfulness-based stress reduction workbook. New Harbinger Publications, Inc.

Stewart, D. (1998). Compassion. In C. Brand, C. Draper, & A. England (Eds.), Holman illustrated Bible dictionary (p. 324). Holman Reference.

Strong, J. (2001). The Greek dictionary of the New Testament. Thomas Nelson.

Talbot, J. (2013). The Jesus prayer: A cry for mercy, a path of renewal. InterVarsity Press.

Zeng, X., Chiu, C., Wang, R., Oei, T., & Leung, F. (2015). The effects of loving-kindness meditation on positive emotions: A meta-analytic review. Frontiers in Psychology, 6.