Abstract
Paranoia may build on negative beliefs held both about the self and others. Compassionate imagery may be one way of reducing such negative beliefs, and hence paranoia. Two studies tested this idea, one targeting compassion for the self and one targeting compassion for others. Two-hundred individuals from the general population scoring highly for paranoia were recruited. The studies used a randomised controlled experimental design, with embedded tests for mediation. Study one targeted self-compassion via creation of a compassionate coach (CC) image. Study two targeted compassion for others via loving kindness meditation (LKM). Individuals repeatedly entered neutral virtual reality social environments. Changes in compassion and paranoia were assessed. Compared to controls, the CC group increased in self-compassion (group difference = 2.12, C.I. = 1.57;2.67, p = <0.0001, d = 1.4) and decreased in paranoia (group difference = −1.73, C.I. = −2.48; −0.98, p = <0.0001, d = 0.8). Change in self-compassion explained 57% of change in paranoia. Compared to controls, the LKM group increased their compassion for others (group difference = 3.26, C.I. = 2.72;3.80, p = <0.0001, d = 1.7), and decreased in paranoia (group difference = −1.70, C.I. = −2.50; −0.89, p = <0.0001, d = 0.8). Change in compassion for others explained 67% of change in paranoia. Targeting negative beliefs about the self and others using compassionate imagery causes reductions in paranoia. Tests in clinical populations are indicated.
Highlights
Paranoia may build on negative beliefs held both about the self and others
The studies we report in this paper test the effects of compassion interventions in individuals from the general population scoring highly for current paranoid ideation
For the final outcome the group difference was 2.12, 95% C.I. = 1.57;2.67, p =
Summary
Compassionate imagery may be one way of reducing such negative beliefs, and paranoia Two studies tested this idea, one targeting compassion for the self and one targeting compassion for others. The studies we report in this paper test the effects of compassion interventions in individuals from the general population scoring highly for current paranoid ideation. Training in self-compassion – e.g. through creating a compassionate coach (CC) image – can help to reduce negative self-beliefs and moderate feelings of threat[13]. VR has been used for treating patients with psychosis[19,20,21], as well as for research with individuals from the general population reporting paranoia[22,23,24] These studies have clearly demonstrated that entering neutral VR environments provokes paranoid ideation in vulnerable individuals. VR provides a way of exposing, with a high level of control, individuals to situations that they find challenging
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
