Social rank and psychological distress: understanding the protective role of compassion

This thesis portfolio comprises three parts:Part One: Systematic Literature ReviewPart One is a systematic review of the literature regarding social rank changes following compassion-based interventions. This review contributes to the evidence supporting the potential mental health benefits of compassion-based interventions, specifically in helping reduce external shame. Limited evidence was found to support the use of compassion-based interventions in addressing unfavorable social comparisons and submissive behaviour.Part Two: Empirical PaperThe relationship between social rank and psychological distress are explored in the empirical investigation presented in Part Two. The empirical study focuses on how components of social rank influence low mood, stress and anxiety. Specifically, the study then considers whether compassion from others and self-compassion weaken the relationships between social rank and psychological distress. The research used a quantitative, survey methodology and cross-sectional design.Part Three: The AppendicesThis includes the reflective and epistemological statements.