Exploring the effectiveness of feedback techniques in cognitive behavioural and compassion focused therapy.

This thesis portfolio comprises three parts:Part One: Systematic Literature ReviewPart one systematically reviewed the effectiveness of two feedback tools and delivery procedures applied within cognitive behavioural therapy for social anxiety, with anxiety and self-perception utilised as outcome variables. This included reviewing the effectiveness of audio and video feedback, alongside the different procedures utilised to deliver these interventions: CP, CR and AF. 14 studies were extracted and synthesized using meta-analysis and narrative synthesis. The findings highlighted the effectiveness of audio and VF for social anxiety, particularly when combined with CP, CR and AF. Recommendations for future research and clinical implications of the findings are discussed.Part Two: Empirical PaperPart two includes an experimental study investigating the effectiveness of alternative mediums to deliver compassionate letter writing via audio-feedback, VF and the mirror. Negative and positive-soothing affect were used as outcome variables. 66 participants, who experienced a self-criticism induction, were randomly assigned to three conditions where they read aloud a previously developed compassionate letter in front of a mirror or viewed a recording of themselves reading aloud the letter via audio or VF. Findings highlighted improvements across all conditions; however, no group differences were found. The compassion intensity of participants letters was found to be important across the whole sample, with higher intensity letters associated with greater reductions in negative affect. The clinical implications and recommendations for future research are further discussed.Part Three comprises the AppendicesPart three compromises of supplementary resources, materials and information employed within part one and two of the thesis. The researcher’s reflective statement and epistemological statement are further included in the appendices.