Parenting self-compassion: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Jefferson, Felicity A.; Shires, Alice; McAloon, John

doi:10.1007/s12671-020-01401-x

Cited by 77Mindfulness and Compassion InterventionsMaternal Mental Health During Pregnancy and PostpartumFamily and Disability Support Research

Parenting self-compassion: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Jefferson, Felicity A., Shires, Alice, McAloon, John·2020·Mindfulness

DOI 10.1007/s12671-020-01401-x

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Parents who possess high self-compassion tend to be more aware of their emotional experiences, prioritize self-care with kindness and warmth, recognize their difficulties as shared experiences, and consequently protect themselves from poor psychological outcomes.
“Parents who possess high self-compassion tend to be more aware of their emotional experiences and warmth, prioritize self-care with kindness and warmth, recognize their difficulties as shared experiences, and consequently protect themselves from poor psychological outcomes [47].”
From Roles of Parental Psychological Flexibility, Self-Compassion, and Self-Efficacy in Affecting Mental Health and Quality of Life in Parents of Children with Eczema (2023) · cites this paper as [47]
This finding aligns with existing research that consistently supports the beneficial role of self-compassion in parental mental health.
“This finding aligns with existing research that consistently supports the beneficial role of self-compassion in parental mental health [47].”
From Roles of Parental Psychological Flexibility, Self-Compassion, and Self-Efficacy in Affecting Mental Health and Quality of Life in Parents of Children with Eczema (2023) · cites this paper as [47]
Studies focusing on parental caregiving consistently indicate that parents who cultivate higher levels of self-compassion experience reduced levels of parenting stress, guilt, shame, and self-criticism while concurrently reporting greater levels of parenting satisfaction, competence, and overall well-being.
“Studies focusing on parental caregiving consistently indicate that parents who cultivate higher levels of self-compassion experience reduced levels of parenting stress, guilt, shame, and self-criticism [73] while concurrently reporting greater levels of parenting satisfaction, competence, and overall well-being [47,73].”
From Roles of Parental Psychological Flexibility, Self-Compassion, and Self-Efficacy in Affecting Mental Health and Quality of Life in Parents of Children with Eczema (2023) · cites this paper as [47]

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LUTHAR, S. S., & SUCHMAN, N. E. (2000) · Development and Psychopathology · doi:10.1017/s0954579400002078 · Cited by 138 · see citing works
Maternal Attachment and Children’s Quality of Life: The Mediating Role of Self-compassion and Parenting Stress
Moreira, H., Gouveia, M., Carona, C., Silva, N., & Canavarro, M. C. (2014) · Journal of Child and Family Studies · doi:10.1007/s10826-014-0036-z · Cited by 137 · see citing works
The Development of the Maternal Breastfeeding Evaluation Scale
Leff, E. W., Jefferis, S. C., & Gagne, M. P. (1994) · Journal of Human Lactation · doi:10.1177/089033449401000217 · Cited by 134 · see citing works
Interpersonal Mindfulness in Parenting Scale
Duncan, L. G. (2007) · Springer eBooks · doi:10.1007/978-3-030-90465-4_141-1 · Cited by 128 · see citing works
The effectiveness of mindful parenting programs in promoting parents’ and childrenʼs wellbeing: a systematic review
Townshend, K., Jordan, Z., Stephenson, M., & Tsey, K. (2016) · JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports · doi:10.11124/jbisrir-2016-2314 · Cited by 120 · see citing works
Input-Output Features of Anatomically Identified CA3 Neurons during Hippocampal Sharp Wave/Ripple Oscillation In Vitro
Hájos, N., Karlócai, M. R., Nemeth, B., Ulbert, I., Monyer, H., Szabó, G., Erdélyi, F., Freund, T. F., & Gulyás, A. I. (2013) · Journal of Neuroscience · doi:10.1523/jneurosci.5729-12.2013 · Cited by 109 · see citing works
The Meaning of Mindfulness in Children and Adolescents: Further Validation of the Child and Adolescent Mindfulness Measure (CAMM) in Two Independent Samples from The Netherlands
de Bruin, E. I., Zijlstra, B. J. H., & Bögels, S. M. (2013) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-013-0196-8 · Cited by 107 · see citing works
Psychological acceptance mediates the impact of the behaviour problems of children with intellectual disability on fathers' psychological adjustment.
MacDonald, E. E., Hastings, R. P., & Fitzsimons, E. (2010) · Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities · doi:10.1111/j.1468-3148.2009.00546.x · Cited by 101 · see citing works
Mindful with Your Baby: Feasibility, Acceptability, and Effects of a Mindful Parenting Group Training for Mothers and Their Babies in a Mental Health Context
Potharst, E. S., Aktar, E., Rexwinkel, M., Rigterink, M., & Bögels, S. M. (2017) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-017-0699-9 · Cited by 96 · see citing works
Compassion Focused Therapy: The CBT distinctive features series
Cheng, F. K. (2013) · Mental Health Religion & Culture · doi:10.1080/13674676.2012.755617 · Cited by 93 · see citing works
Psychosocial interventions for disruptive and aggressive behaviour in children and adolescents
Fossum, S., Handegård, B. H., Martinussen, M., & Mørch, W. (2008) · European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry · doi:10.1007/s00787-008-0686-8 · Cited by 90 · see citing works
Self-compassion: Stop beating yourself up and leave insecurity behind [Book Review]
Tan, P. (2012) · Psychotherapy in Australia · Cited by 90 · see citing works
Self-Compassion and Parenting in Mothers and Fathers with Depression
Psychogiou, L., Legge, K., Parry, E., Mann, J. J., Nath, S., Ford, T. J., & Kuyken, W. (2016) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-016-0528-6 · Cited by 88 · see citing works
Self-compassion Improves Parental Well-being in Response to Challenging Parenting Events
Sirois, F. M., Bögels, S. M., & Emerson, L. (2018) · The Journal of Psychology · doi:10.1080/00223980.2018.1523123 · Cited by 84 · see citing works
Role of self-compassion in psychological well-being among perinatal women
Felder, J. N., Lemon, E. L., Shea, K., Kripke, K., & Dimidjian, S. (2016) · Archives of Women s Mental Health · doi:10.1007/s00737-016-0628-2 · Cited by 82 · see citing works
Exploring the link between maternal attachment-related anxiety and avoidance and mindful parenting: The mediating role of self-compassion.
Moreira, H., Carona, C., Silva, N., Nunes, J., & Canavarro, M. C. (2016) · Psychology and Psychotherapy Theory Research and Practice · doi:10.1111/papt.12082 · Cited by 81 · see citing works
Challenging Parenting Behavior from Infancy to Toddlerhood: Etiology, Measurement, and Differences between Fathers and Mothers
Majdandžić, M., de Vente, W., & Bögels, S. M. (2015) · Infancy · doi:10.1111/infa.12125 · Cited by 81 · see citing works
Acceptance-based behavioral therapy for GAD: effects on outcomes from three theoretical models.
Treanor, M., Erisman, S. M., Salters-Pedneault, K., Roemer, L., & Orsillo, S. M. (2011) · Depression and Anxiety · doi:10.1002/da.20766 · Cited by 79 · see citing works
SRS, Screeningslijst voor autismespectrumstoornissen
Roeyers, H., Thys, M., Druart, C., Schryver, M. D., & Schittekatte, M. (2011) · Ghent University Academic Bibliography (Ghent University) · Cited by 78 · see citing works
Feasibility and acceptability of a brief online self-compassion intervention for mothers of infants
Mitchell, A. E., Whittingham, K., Steindl, S., & Kirby, J. (2018) · Archives of Women's Mental Health · doi:10.1007/s00737-018-0829-y · Cited by 77 · see citing works
Relational Psychotherapy Mothers' Group: A randomized clinical trial for substance abusing mothers
LUTHAR, S. S., SUCHMAN, N. E., & ALTOMARE, M. (2007) · Development and Psychopathology · doi:10.1017/s0954579407070137 · Cited by 75 · see citing works
The Compassion Scale
Pommier, E. (2010) · Texas ScholarWorks (Texas Digital Library) · Cited by 69 · see citing works
A mindfulness parent well-being course: evaluation of outcomes for parents of children with autism and related disabilities recruited through special schools
Jones, L., Gold, E., Totsika, V., Hastings, R. P., Jones, M., Griffiths, A., & Silverton, S. (2018) · European Journal of Special Needs Education · doi:10.1080/08856257.2017.1297571 · Cited by 68 · see citing works
Fostering Resilience among Mothers under Stress: “Authentic Connections Groups” for Medical Professionals
Luthar, S. S., Curlee, A. S., Tye, S. J., Engelman, J. C., & Stonnington, C. M. (2017) · Women s Health Issues · doi:10.1016/j.whi.2017.02.007 · Cited by 62 · see citing works
The Mindful Way through Anxiety: Break Free from Chronic Worry and Reclaim Your Life
Roemer, L., & Orsillo, S. M. (2011) · Cited by 59 · see citing works
A mindfulness intervention to reduce maternal distress in neonatal intensive care: a mixed methods pilot study
Mendelson, T., McAfee, C., Damian, A. J., Brar, A., Donohue, P., & Sibinga, E. (2018) · Archives of Women's Mental Health · doi:10.1007/s00737-018-0862-x · Cited by 58 · see citing works
Affiliative and prosocial motives and emotions in mental health
Gilbert, P. (2015) · Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience · doi:10.31887/dcns.2015.17.4/pgilbert · Cited by 58 · see citing works
Supervised, Vigorous Intensity Exercise Intervention for Depressed Female Smokers: A Pilot Study
Patten, C. A., Bronars, C. A., Douglas, K. S. V., USSHER, M. H., Levine, J. A., Tye, S. J., Hughes, C. A., Brockman, T. A., Decker, P. A., DeJesus, R. S., et al. (2016) · Nicotine & Tobacco Research · doi:10.1093/ntr/ntw208 · Cited by 55 · see citing works
Exploring the paths between dysfunctional attitudes towards motherhood and postpartum depressive symptoms: The moderating role of self‐compassion
Fonseca, A., & Canavarro, M. C. (2017) · Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy · doi:10.1002/cpp.2145 · Cited by 46 · see citing works
Postpartum Outcomes and Formal Mindfulness Practice in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Perinatal Women
Luberto, C. M., Park, E. R., & Goodman, J. H. (2018) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-017-0825-8 · Cited by 42 · see citing works
The Mindfulness‐enhanced Strengthening Families Program: Integrating brief mindfulness activities and parent training within an evidence‐based prevention program
Coatsworth, J. D., Duncan, L. G., Berrena, E., Bamberger, K. T., Loeschinger, D. C., Greenberg, M. T., & Nix, R. L. (2014) · New Directions for Youth Development · doi:10.1002/yd.20096 · Cited by 39 · see citing works
Mindful Birthing: Training the Mind, Body, and Heart for Childbirth and Beyond
Bardacke, N. (2012) · Cited by 39 · see citing works
Cochrane Review: Behavioural and cognitive-behavioural group-based parenting programmes for early -onset conduct problems in children aged 3 to 12 years.
Furlong, M., McGilloway, S., Bywater, T. J., Hutchings, J., Smith, S. M., & Donnelly, M. (2013) · Research Portal (Queen's University Belfast) · Cited by 37 · see citing works
Mindful With Your Toddler Group Training: Feasibility, Acceptability, and Effects on Subjective and Objective Measures
Potharst, E. S., Zeegers, M. A. J., & Bögels, S. M. (2018) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-018-1073-2 · Cited by 36 · see citing works
Untitled work
(2008) · DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) · Cited by 35 · see citing works
Integrative Review of the Relationship Between Mindfulness-Based Parenting Interventions and Depression Symptoms in Parents
Alexander, K. (2017) · Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing · doi:10.1016/j.jogn.2017.11.013 · Cited by 25 · see citing works
Attachment, Mastery, and Interdependence: A Model of Parenting Processes*
Edwards, M. E. (2002) · Family Process · doi:10.1111/j.1545-5300.2002.41308.x · Cited by 24 · see citing works
A Randomized Micro-trial of a Loving-Kindness Meditation to Help Parents Respond to Difficult Child Behavior Vignettes
Kirby, J. N., & Baldwin, S. (2017) · Journal of Child and Family Studies · doi:10.1007/s10826-017-0989-9 · Cited by 24 · see citing works
A Preliminary Study Investigating the Effectiveness of the Caring for Body and Mind in Pregnancy (CBMP) in Reducing Perinatal Depression, Anxiety and Stress
Townshend, K., Caltabiano, N. J., Powrie, R. M., & O’Grady, H. (2018) · Journal of Child and Family Studies · doi:10.1007/s10826-017-0978-z · Cited by 22 · see citing works
Manual Development and Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Versus Usual Care for Parents with a History of Depression
Mann, J., Kuyken, W., O’Mahen, H., Ukoumunne, O. C., Evans, A., & Ford, T. J. (2016) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-016-0543-7 · Cited by 21 · see citing works
Chronic Childhood Stress: Psychometric Properties of the Chronic Stress Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents (CSQ-CA) in Three Independent Samples
de Bruin, E. I., Sieh, D. S., Zijlstra, B. J. H., & Meijer, A. M. (2017) · Child Indicators Research · doi:10.1007/s12187-017-9478-3 · Cited by 20 · see citing works
Questionnaire on Resources and Stress--Friedrich
Friedrich, W. N., Greenberg, M. T., & Crnic, K. A. (1983) · PsycTESTS Dataset · doi:10.1037/t10563-000 · Cited by 13 · see citing works
Handleiding VGFO: Vragenlijst Gezinsfunctioneren volgens Ouders
Veerman, J. W., Kroes, G., Meyer, R., Janssen, J. J., Nguyen, L. M., & Vermulst, A. A. (2016) · Radboud Repository (Radboud University) · Cited by 5 · see citing works
Parental Evaluation Scale (EEP): Development, Psychometric Properties and Applications
Farkas Klein, C. (2008) · LA Referencia (Red Federada de Repositorios Institucionales de Publicaciones Científicas) · Cited by 2 · see citing works

Flagged first, then by citations

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Sorted by citations

A Web-Based, Mindful, and Compassionate Parenting Training for Mothers Experiencing Parenting Stress: Results from a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of the Mindful Moment Program
Fernandes, D. V., Monteiro, F., Canavarro, M. C., & Moreira, H. (2022) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-022-02016-0 · Cited by 32 · see citing works
The Effects of Online Behavioral Parenting Interventions on Child Outcomes, Parenting Ability and Parent Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
McAloon, J., & Armstrong, S. M. (2024) · Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review · doi:10.1007/s10567-024-00477-4 · Cited by 31 · see citing works
“A minimum of four studies were required for an analysis to be undertaken (Bora et al., 2017; Jefferson et al., 2020) and Hedge’s g effect sizes were used because of the presence of studies with small sample sizes (Durlak, 2009; Ellis, 2010).”
MethodSelf-citation
A Meta-analysis of Loving-Kindness Meditations on Self-Compassion
Reilly, E. B., & Stuyvenberg, C. L. (2022) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-022-01972-x · Cited by 31 · see citing works
Self-compassion Intervention for Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities: A Feasibility Study
Ahmed, A. N., & Raj, S. P. (2022) · Advances in Neurodevelopmental Disorders · doi:10.1007/s41252-022-00305-2 · Cited by 33 · see citing works
A Bibliometric Review of Self-Compassion Research: Science Mapping the Literature, 1999 to 2020
Swami, V., Andersen, N., & Furnham, A. (2021) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-021-01662-0 · Cited by 25 · see citing works
Parenting a Child with Mental Health Problems: the Role of Self-Compassion
Shenaar‐Golan, V., Wald, N., & Yatzkar, U. (2021) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-021-01744-z · Cited by 27 · see citing works
Compassion as a transdiagnostic target to reduce mental health symptoms and promote well-being
Kirby, J. N. (2025) · Nature Reviews Psychology · doi:10.1038/s44159-025-00422-4 · Cited by 19 · see citing works
“A meta-analysis 127 of 13 studies found that parenting interventions that included self-compassion components substantially increased parental self-compassion (Hedges’ g = 0.372) and decreased parental depression ( g = –0.425), parental anxiety ( g = –0.377), and parental stress ( g = –0.363).”
Influential
The Correlation Between Self-Compassion and Life Satisfaction Varies Across Societal Individualism-Collectivism: A Three-Level Meta-Analysis
Wang, H., & Lou, X. (2022) · Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology · doi:10.1177/00220221221109547 · Cited by 26 · see citing works
“, 2015), lower psychopathology (MacBeth & Gumley, 2012), being more motivated (Breines & Chen, 2012), being more resilient (Neff & McGehee, 2010), being a better close relationship partner (Neff & Beretvas, 2013), a better caregiver (Raab, 2014), and even a better parent (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
Background
Effects of Mindfulness-Based Parallel-Group Interventions on Family Functioning and Child and Parent Mental Health: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Xie, Q., Dai, X., Lyu, R., & Lu, S. (2021) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-021-01728-z · Cited by 22 · see citing works
Paternal Attachment in the First Five Years: the Role of Self-compassion, Negative Emotional Symptoms, Parenting Stress, and Parent Self-efficacy
Mancini, V. O., De Palma, M., Barker, J. L., Kharrazi, S., Izett, E., Rooney, R., & Finlay-Jones, A. L. (2023) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-022-02028-w · Cited by 20 · see citing works
Hope and Self-Compassion to Alleviate Parenting Stress in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Garcia, A. S., Born, S. L., Carotta, C. L., Lavender‐Stott, E. S., & Liu, H. (2021) · The Family Journal · doi:10.1177/10664807211040836 · Cited by 22 · see citing works
“Self-compassion has been found to mediate relationships between constructs related to parenting quality (Gouveia et al., 2016; Jefferson et al., 2020; Moreira et al., 2015, 2016).”
Background
Emotion regulation and subjective well-being among parents of children with behavioral and emotional problems – the role of self-compassion
Shenaar‐Golan, V., Gur, A., & Yatzkar, U. (2022) · Current Psychology · doi:10.1007/s12144-022-03228-2 · Cited by 19 · see citing works
Living in two worlds’: a qualitative analysis of first-time mothers’ experiences of maternal ambivalence
Raneberg, A., & MacCallum, F. (2024) · Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology · doi:10.1080/02646838.2023.2206842 · Cited by 17 · see citing works
“Interventions that promote self-compassion have been shown to reduce self-criticism, as well as depression, anxiety and parenting stress (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
Explaining Parenting Stress among Adoptive Parents: The Contribution of Mindfulness, Psychological Flexibility, and Self-Compassion
Chorão, A. L., Canavarro, M. C., & Pires, R. (2022) · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · doi:10.3390/ijerph192114534 · Cited by 19 · see citing works
Self-compassion improves emotion regulation and mental health outcomes: A pilot study of an online self-compassion program for autistic adults
Cai, R. Y., Edwards, C., Love, A. M. A., Brown, L., & Gibbs, V. (2024) · Autism · doi:10.1177/13623613241235061 · Cited by 16 · see citing works
“…environments where people receive compassion from themselves, and others lead to better life outcomes across contexts, including work, tertiary education, and parenting (Chan et al., 2022; Conti, 2015; Dutton et al., 2006; Jefferson et al., 2020; Mayer & Oosthuizen, 2020; Shuck et al., 2019).”
Dog owners: Disenfranchised guilt and related depression and anxiety
Kogan, L. R., Bussolari, C. J., Currin-McCulloch, J. A., Packman, W. L., & Erdman, P. (2023) · Human-Animal Interactions · doi:10.1079/hai.2023.0016 · Cited by 15 · see citing works
Self‐compassion reduces parental burnout: Mediation roles of parental psychological control and support
Nguyen, T. M., An, N. H., Tran, P. T. T., & Vo, H. T. P. (2022) · Personal Relationships · doi:10.1111/pere.12464 · Cited by 14 · see citing works
Homework Stress and Learning Disability: The Role of Parental Shame, Guilt, and Need Frustration
Katz, I., Alesi, M., & Moè, A. (2022) · Learning Disabilities Research and Practice · doi:10.1111/ldrp.12294 · Cited by 13 · see citing works
“…interventions for parents should ﬁrst aim at curbing shame, perhaps by reframing entity beliefs (e.g., by shaping a more incremental theory of abilities; Gunderson et al., 2018; Rutledge et al., 2018) and increasing self-compassionate attitudes (e.g., Jefferson et al., 2020; Moreira et al., 2015).”
Linking Mothers’ Self-Compassion and Parenting Feelings to Their Child’s Behavior Problems
Cohen, E., & Naaman, E. R. (2022) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-022-02043-x · Cited by 12 · see citing works
Self-compassion and parenting efficacy among mothers who are breast cancer survivors: Implications for psychological distress
Kuswanto, C. N., Stafford, L., Schofield, P. E., & Sharp, J. L. (2024) · Journal of Health Psychology · doi:10.1177/13591053231222162 · Cited by 13 · see citing works
“In addition, a systematic review and meta-analysis provided evidence that parenting interventions that included self-compassion components can increase self-compassion and decrease depression, anxiety and stress among parents over time (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
Background
Self-compassion, mental health, and parenting: Comparing parents of autistic and non-autistic children
Liang, K., Lam, K. K. L., Huang, L., Lin, X., Wang, Z., Liu, H., & Chi, P. (2024) · Autism · doi:10.1177/13623613241286683 · Cited by 11 · see citing works
“Interventions that included self-compassion components (e.g. mindfulness) have shown promising effects in alleviating anxiety and depression among parents (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
Examining the Influence of Self-compassion Education and Training Upon Parents and Families When Caring for their Children: A Systematic Review
Othman, S. M. E., Steen, M., Wepa, D., & McKellar, L. V. (2022) · The Open Psychology Journal · doi:10.2174/18743501-v15-e221020-2022-39 · Cited by 10 · see citing works
Self-Compassion in Parenting
Moreira, H. (2023) · Mindfulness in behavioral health · doi:10.1007/978-3-031-22348-8_16 · Cited by 10 · see citing works
Parenting Stress and Self-Compassion in Parents of Children with and Without Psychological Disorders
Stenz, C. F. H., Breitmeyer, A. M., & Jansen, K. L. (2022) · The Family Journal · doi:10.1177/10664807221123557 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
“A recent meta-analysis found compassion-based interventions significantly reduce parenting stress in clinical and nonclinical parents (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
Background
Self-Compassion for Caregivers of Children in Parentally Bereaved Families: A Theoretical Model and Intervention Example
Zhang, N., Sandler, I. N., Thieleman, K., Wolchik, S. A., & O’Hara, K. L. (2023) · Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review · doi:10.1007/s10567-023-00431-w · Cited by 8 · see citing works
Self-Compassion and Psychological Health of Parents: A Meta-Analysis Focused on Some Neurodevelopmental Disorders
ÖZTÜRK, C., & Güzel, H. Ş. (2025) · Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders · doi:10.1007/s10803-025-06841-9 · Cited by 8 · see citing works
“Furthermore, although there are meta-analytic studies on self-compassion and the mentioned variables (Jefferson et al., 2020; Zessin et al., 2015), it has been observed that there is no meta-analysis in the context of NDDs.”
Parents' marital satisfaction, self‐compassion, and harsh discipline in China: A dyadic analysis
Wang, D., Xie, R., Yan, R., Ding, W., & Lin, X. (2023) · Family Relations · doi:10.1111/fare.12951 · Cited by 7 · see citing works
Roles of Parental Psychological Flexibility, Self-Compassion, and Self-Efficacy in Affecting Mental Health and Quality of Life in Parents of Children with Eczema
Chong, Y. Y., Kwan, J. Y. M., Yau, P. T., Cheng, H. Y., & Chien, W. T. (2023) · Healthcare · doi:10.3390/healthcare11202708 · Cited by 6 · see citing works
“This ﬁnding aligns with existing research that consistently supports the beneﬁcial role of self-compassion in parental mental health [47].”
BackgroundResultInfluential
Applying a process-based therapy approach to compassion focused therapy: A synergetic alliance
Fraser, M., & Gregory, K. (2024) · Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science · doi:10.1016/j.jcbs.2024.100754 · Cited by 7 · see citing works
SELF-COMFORTING BEHAVIOURS ACROSS THEORETICAL FRAMEWORKS: A 50-YEAR SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF PATTERNS, MECHANISMS, AND SOCIO-CULTURAL INFLUENCES
Obohwemu, K. O., Yakpir, G. M., Simran, K., Ndioho, I. F., Owusuaa-Asante, M. A., Nourhan, A., Jamila, A., Karen, H., MSC IBIC Change, L., Omoregie, J., et al. (2024) · The American Journal of Social Science and Education Innovations · doi:10.37547/tajssei/volume06issue12-07 · Cited by 5 · see citing works
Parents’ Self-Compassion as a Moderator Between Children’s Emotional Regulation Difficulties and Parents’ Depressive Symptoms
Larrucea‐Iruretagoyena, M., Orue, I., & Calvete, E. (2024) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-024-02412-8 · Cited by 5 · see citing works
“…of children’s emotion regulation difficulties in the depression of both fathers and mothers (Goodman et al., 2020), previous studies have highlighted the importance of identifying protective factors that could be developed through interventions (e.g., Jefferson et al., 2020; Torbet et al., 2019).”
The Roles of Parental Psychological Flexibility, Mindfulness, and Self‐Compassion in Affecting Mental Health and Self‐Efficacy in Parents of Children With or Without Hearing Loss: An Analysis of the Parallel Mediation Model
Jiao, X., Yang, L., & Li, S. (2025) · Nursing Open · doi:10.1002/nop2.70180 · Cited by 5 · see citing works
Self‐Compassion Mediates the Longitudinal Associations of Perceived Social Support With Individual Adjustment Among Chinese Parents of Kindergarten‐Aged Children
Bi, S., Lam, C. B., & Chung, K. K. H. (2025) · Stress and Health · doi:10.1002/smi.70068 · Cited by 4 · see citing works
“For example, meta‐analytic reviews showed that self‐compassion interventions might effectively reduce depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress among adults (Han and Kim 2023) and parents (Jefferson et al. 2020).”
Parenting-Related Self-Compassion Scale (P-SCS): Adaptation and Validation in Indonesian Parents
Hasyyati, B. M., & Abidin, F. A. (2022) · The Open Psychology Journal · doi:10.2174/18743501-v15-e2206200 · Cited by 4 · see citing works
A Compassion-Focused Approach to Support Parents After Preterm Birth
Lloyd-Collins, T. M., Fitzallen, G. C., & Kirby, J. N. (2025) · Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review · doi:10.1007/s10567-025-00549-z · Cited by 3 · see citing works
“In contrast, research has shown that greater self-compassion is linked to lower levels of depression, anxiety and stress in adult populations (MacBeth & Gumley, 2012) and, more specifically, parent populations (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
The association between parental mental health and screen time among U.S. children aged 6–17
Qiu, S., Cao, Y., Chen, S., Li, G., Liu, Y., Wang, Y., Zeng, X., Yuan, M., & Yang, W. (2025) · BMC Psychology · doi:10.1186/s40359-025-03758-x · Cited by 3 · see citing works
“…Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7): scores <10 indicated none/minimal/mild symptoms, and scores ≥10 indicated moderate/severe symptoms Note: * p <0.05 and scholarly literature underscores the importance of parental self-care in promoting not only their own well-being but also that of their children [34].”
Influential
A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study to Identify Facilitators Leading to Sustained Mindfulness Practice across the Perinatal Period
Walls, J., Farewell, C. V., Traikoff, K., Burns, H., Whalen, J., Shefferman, M., & Leiferman, J. A. (2022) · OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine · doi:10.21926/obm.icm.2203038 · Cited by 3 · see citing works
Internet‐based third‐wave Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for reducing stress in parents of children and adolescents with chronic conditions: Systematic review and meta‐analysis protocol
Davey, M., Fried, L., Chih, H., Rooney, R. M., & Roberts, A. (2024) · Health Science Reports · doi:10.1002/hsr2.70125 · Cited by 3 · see citing works
“38,40,41 Although research has explored traditional face ‐ to ‐ face interventions for this parent population, more research is needed on alternative ways to support parents, considering the many challenges they face (i.e. limited access to services, time constraints, lack of self ‐ care).”
Background
Exploring how parents of chronically ill children learn self-compassion
Long, P., Knox, M. C., Gulbas, L. E., & Gregory, K. (2024) · Discover Psychology · doi:10.1007/s44202-024-00287-3 · Cited by 3 · see citing works
“…struggle with self-criticism and rumination related to their child’s disease, and mindfulness and self-compassion tools can help parents down-regulate stress through self-soothing and emotion regulation, as opposed to exacerbating stress through avoidance, suppression, and self-criticism [28].”
Postpartum Depression and Maternal-Infant Bonding Experiences in Social Media Videos: Qualitative Content Analysis
Sobowale, K., Castleman, J. S., & Zhao, S. Y. (2025) · JMIR Infodemiology · doi:10.2196/59125 · Cited by 5 · see citing works
“Self-compassion approaches that reduce shame and guilt effectively enhance bonding and reduce depression [50,51].”
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Singha, R. (2024) · Advances in educational marketing, administration, and leadership book series · doi:10.4018/979-8-3693-1455-5.ch004 · Cited by 3 · see citing works
Actor–spouse interdependence of marital satisfaction on coparenting in longitudinal relationship: The mediating role of self‐compassion
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Bord, S., Inchi, L., Paldi, Y., Baruch, R., Shpiro, M. S., Ronen, S., Eizenberg, L., Gens, I., & Yaari, M. (2025) · Healthcare · doi:10.3390/healthcare13151889 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
“Self-compassion was positively associated with coping with stress and adaptive behavior to life demands [42,43].”
Maternal Ambivalence and Mothers’ Mental Health: Examining the Role of “Good Mother” Ideals, Shame, and Self-Compassion
Raneberg, A., & MacCallum, F. (2025) · Sex Roles · doi:10.1007/s11199-025-01621-2 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
“Self-compassion also reduces guilt and shame fol - lowing challenging parenting events (Sirois et al., 2019 ) and is beneficial in clinical interventions for parental depression, anxiety, and stress (Jefferson et al., 2020 ).”
Shared trauma: Examining the moderating role of parental psychological flexibility and self-compassion on PTSD and distress in refugee families
Lev‐Ari, R. K., Aloni, R., Margalit, D., & Ben-Ari, A. (2024) · Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science · doi:10.1016/j.jcbs.2024.100826 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
Women's experiences of the transition to motherhood and self-compassion
Hunter, S., & Dickson, C. A. W. (2024) · Journal of Family and Child Health · doi:10.12968/jfch.2024.1.1.28 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
Fathers’ Self-Compassion and Child Attachment Quality: Testing a Sequential Indirect Effect via Emotion Regulation Difficulties, Loneliness, and Psychological Distress in Two Paternal Samples
van Heerden, D., Mazzucchelli, T. G., Kirby, J. N., Brett, J. D., & Mancini, V. O. (2025) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-025-02538-3 · Cited by 4 · see citing works
“…where self-compassion is ostensibly low (e.g., diagnosed depressive disorders) or parents of children expressing behavioural difficulties or experiencing neurodevelopmental conditions that increase the risk for conflict — such as children with autism spectrum disorder (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
Influential
Self-compassion in parents of children with chronic illnesses: A concept analysis
Boonlue, C., & Srisawet, S. (2025) · Belitung Nursing Journal · doi:10.33546/bnj.3833 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
“This approach helps to reduce rumination, attention issues, internalizing and externalizing symptoms, and social communication difficulties in children (Cohen & Naaman, 2023; Jefferson et al., 2020).”
Influential
Impact of Nonviolent Communication Parenting Group on Modifying Parenting Styles
Mo, K. Y., Cheung, J. P.-Y., Tsang, W. H. W., Chung, P. Y.-K., & Wong, M. F.-Y. (2025) · Research on Social Work Practice · doi:10.1177/10497315251381256 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
“A systematic review was conducted by Jefferson et al. (2020), and they analyzed 13 studies on parenting programs that included self-compassion components.”
EBEVEYNLİKTE MÜKEMMELİYETÇİLİK VE ÖZ-ŞEFKAT
Belet, E. Ö. (2025) · Adıyaman üniversitesi sosyal bilimler enstitüsü dergisi/Adıyaman üniversitesi sosyal bilimler enstitisü dergisi · doi:10.14520/adyusbd.1740375 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
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“A systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by Jefferson et al. ( 2020 ) demonstrated that interventions promoting self-compassion were associated with improvements in several mental health outcomes, including reduced anxiety, depression, and stress.”
Parental self-compassion in the digital age: a shield against techno-family stress
Maberah, S. M., & Al-Rub, M. A. (2026) · Frontiers in Education · doi:10.3389/feduc.2026.1781912 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
Mindfulness Processes that Mitigate COVID-Related Stressors in Caregivers in the United States
Wen, N. J., Lo, S. L., & Miller, A. L. (2023) · Journal of Child and Family Studies · doi:10.1007/s10826-023-02681-2 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
“In terms of self-compassion, a recent meta-analysis suggested that parenting interventions that included components that targeted increasing parental self-compassion had a positive impact on parenting stress, depression, anxiety, and mindfulness (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
Evaluating multidimensional facets of the maternal experience after preterm birth
Fitzallen, G. C., Kirby, J. N., Taylor, H. G., Liley, H. G., & Bora, S. (2024) · Journal of Perinatology · doi:10.1038/s41372-024-01865-y · Cited by 1 · see citing works
“A recent meta-analysis of 13 studies synthesizing the bene ﬁ ts of interventions aimed at increasing parental self-compassion found signi ﬁ cant reductions in parental psycho-pathology, including depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as increases in mindfulness [13, 14].”
Background
The effectiveness of self-compassion training on cognitive emotion regulation and distress tolerance in mothers of children with intellectual disability
Giahi, Z., Sadoughi, M., & Tamannaifar, M. R. (2024) · Quarterly Journal of Child Mental Health · doi:10.61186/jcmh.11.3.5 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
Stability of Self-compassion and its Relationship to Depressive Symptoms in Primary Caregivers of Twin Children: A Longitudinal Study
Mistretta, E. G., Davis, M. C., Clifford, S., Olah, M. S., Doane, L. D., & Lemery‐Chalfant, K. (2026) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-026-02829-3 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
“In a meta-analysis of parenting intervention trials that incorporated self-compassion, parents showed small to moderate improvements in depressive symptoms pre-to post-intervention (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
Exploring the Use of Self-Compassion in the Transition to Motherhood: A Thematic Analysis
Felton, B. (2021) · UEL Research Repository (University of East London) · doi:10.15123/uel.8993y
La cita con la historia
Torrell, J. (2002) · Mientras tanto
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Othman, S. M. E., Steen, M., McKellar, L. V., & Wepa, D. (2021) · doi:10.2196/preprints.33759
“It is acknowledged that early parenting, significantly influences the health and wellbeing of children [16].”
Background
The Impact of an mHealth Mental Health Literacy Training for Foster Parents Prepared for Trends in Psychology
Biber, D. (2023) · Trends in Psychology · doi:10.1007/s43076-023-00348-x
“Previous self-compassion interventions have effectively increased self-compassion and reduced depression, anxiety, and stress in parents as well (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
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Jansen, P. (2023) · Springer eBooks · doi:10.1007/978-3-662-67840-4_2
Zelfcompassie voor verzorgers van kinderen in gezinnen met een overleden ouder: een theoretisch model en een voorbeeldinterventie
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Bidirectional longitudinal relationships between parents’ self-compassion, positive co-parenting, and warm parenting
Xiao, L., Xie, R., Ding, W., Sun, B., Yan, R., Wang, D., & Chen, Y. (2025) · Current Psychology · doi:10.1007/s12144-025-07596-3
“Current research has revealed a negative correlation between self-compassion and various negative aspects of parenting (Jefferson et al., 2020).”
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“These findings replicate known benefits of self-compassion training (Cengiz and Kili , 2025; Fenning et al., 2024; Jefferson et al., 2020; Neff and Faso, 2015; Rayan and Ahmad, 2017) and suggest that even modest engagement may support well-being.”
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Exploring the methodology to assess the influence of self-compassion education and training for parents and families: A Protocol for a Systematic ReviewPreprint
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Othman, S. M. E., Steen, M., Wepa, D., & McKellar, L. V. (2022) · The Open Psychology Journal · doi:10.2174/18743501-v15-e221020-2022-39 · Cited by 10 · see citing works
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Bethan Roberts - Thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the degree of Doctor of Clinical Psychology (DClinPsych)
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Self-Compassion and Parenting in Mothers and Fathers with Depression
Psychogiou, L., Legge, K., Parry, E., Mann, J. J., Nath, S., Ford, T. J., & Kuyken, W. (2016) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-016-0528-6 · Cited by 88 · see citing works

Authors: Jefferson, F. A., Shires, A., & McAloon, J.
Affiliations: University of Technology Sydney (AU)
Corresponding author: McAloon, John
ORCID: Shires, Alice
McAloon, John
Venue: Mindfulness
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Published: 2020-06-18
Volume: 11
Issue: 9
Pages: 2067-2088
ISSN: 1868-8527 (ISSN-L)
1868-8535
DOI: 10.1007/s12671-020-01401-x
OpenAlex: W3036272765
Cited by: 77
References: 140
Citations by year: 2026: 10 · 2025: 20 · 2024: 17 · 2023: 9 · 2022: 14 · 2021: 6
FWCI: 0.57
Type: journal article
Language: en
Open access: closed
Licence: www.springer.com/tdm (tdm)
www.springer.com/tdm (vor)
Locations: Mindfulness (publishedVersion)
Topics: Social Sciences › Psychology › Clinical Psychology › Mindfulness and Compassion Interventions
Health Sciences › Medicine › Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health › Maternal Mental Health During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Social Sciences › Psychology › Clinical Psychology › Family and Disability Support Research
Keywords: self-compassion, parenting support, parental self-compassion, parental depression, parental anxiety, parental stress, child outcomes, parent-child relationship

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