Change Mechanism of Cognitively-Based Compassion Training for Couples with Depression: An Exploratory Empirical Investigation of Process Variables

Objective: Compassion training seems to be a promising intervention for couples to improve individual psychopathology and relationship quality. Beyond studying the efficacy of training such as Cognitively-Based Compassion Training for Couples (CBCT-fC), it is important to gain insights into the putative mechanisms along the process.Methods: Theoretically derived presumed mechanisms of compassion training (clarification of values, self-regulation, decentering, and exposure) and additional therapeutic factors (emotional bond, social learning, and clarification of meaning) were studied over the course of a 10-session-long group-based CBCT-fC among women with depressive disorders.Results: Dyadic growth curve models indicated that emotional bond, social learning, and clarification of meaning increase over time in both partners. In decentering and clarification of values, women who suffered from depression showed a larger increase than men, while men had higher values at the start of the training.Conclusions: Women with depression seem to benefit from CBCT-fC in terms of an increase in decentering and value clarification, important mechanisms of compassion training. This study is the first to show that theoretically derived mechanisms of compassion and additional therapeutic factors can describe the process along secular contemplative training sessions, which are increasingly implemented in the health care system. Future studies should explore the relationship of mechanisms and the outcome along the process of the training.Study Registration: Trial registration number NCT03080025.

Automated summary

Compassion training for couples, specifically the Cognitively-Based Compassion Training for Couples (CBCT-fC), shows promise in improving psychopathology and relationship quality. This study explores the mechanisms of CBCT-fC and additional therapeutic factors in women with depressive disorders. The results suggest that CBCT-fC increases emotional bond, social learning, and clarification of meaning over time, with women experiencing greater improvements in decentering and value clarification.