Self-compassion and obsessive-compulsive disorder: A systematic review

ABSTRACT The understanding of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has indeed evolved significantly over time, moving away from historical attributions like demonic possession to modern, evidence-based biological, and psychological explanations. Among psychological explanations, the emergence of third-wave cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT) has broadened the focus from traditional cognitive models to include factors related to the individual’s relationship with their own experiences. One such factor gaining attention in OCD research is self-compassion. Self-compassion, rooted in mindfulness and self-kindness, contrasts with the self-criticism and harsh self-judgment often experienced by individuals with OCD. This systematic review provides an in-depth exploration of the relationship between self-compassion and OCD. Following preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were systematically searched, and 13 studies were identified. While all studies identified a negative correlation between self-compassion and OCD severity, their conclusions about self-compassion’s role in influencing OCD varied. Some studies found that self-compassion was not a predictor of OCD severity, others identified it as a predictor, and some suggested it influenced OCD through specific pathways. Overall, self-compassion appears to be a promising factor in understanding and treating OCD. Further research is needed to explore its role in greater depth.