Moodle Archive for 2016-17

Summary of study:

This study aims to measure levels of self-compassion experienced by the UK general population. It will ask questions related to how you think and react to your emotions.

Why is this research being conducted?

In the past few years there has been a growing interest in how we treat ourselves when we find times difficult. To date, research has demonstrated that self-compassion is related to psychological wellbeing. As such, it seems valuable to ascertain levels of self-compassion in the general population.

The majority of self-compassion research has been in the USA and whilst some UK research has looked at self-compassion as part of their studies, no research to date has established this within the UK general population.

Why have I been invited?

You have been invited as you are a member of the adult UK general population and are aged 18 or above. You will have either responded to an advert placed on the University of Essex REO website or have been sent the link by a friend who thinks you may be interested. 

What will be involved?

You will be asked to complete a short questionnaire. All responses will be anonymous however at the end of the questionnaire you will be asked to complete some questions about you.  You will also be given the opportunity to enter a free prize draw to win £40 of Marks and Spencer’s Vouchers. The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete.

Do I have to take part?

No. Participation in this research is completely voluntary. Should you not wish to take part or begin completing the questionnaire then decide to withdraw just simply close the browser window to exit. No data provided up to this point will be saved.  If you know of anyone who may be interested in completing this questionnaire instead then please feel free to email them this link to access it. 

Are there any disadvantages or risks to me?

The questions will require you to think about yourself and some will also ask you how you feel currently. As a result, you may notice negative emotions you’re feeling which may lead to a temporary dip in mood. If you do feel like this and would like support, there is a contact list of  organisations that can help at the end of this questionnaire. If this feeling persists and begins to interfere in your daily life I advise that you speak to your G.P. and look together at other options available.

What are the possible benefits of taking part?

As this research is the first to assess levels of self-compassion in a UK general population, it is hoped that the information you provide will help advance future research of self-compassion in this country. This aims to support the development of more appropriate and effective future treatments for individuals with mental ill-health.

How do I give my consent to take part?

By completing the consent page that will follow.

What will happen to my responses?

Your responses will be collected anonymously and inputted into a secure database ready for data analysis. If you wish to submit your email to enter the free prize draw for £40 of Marks and Spencer’s vouchers your email will be stored confidentially in a separate password protected database, away from the main study data. Following the notification of the prize draw winner, this database will be deleted.

Other information about the research:

This study has been reviewed and approved by the University of Essex Ethics Committee.

Can I discuss any further questions that I have about this study?

Yes. Should you wish to ask any questions then the principal investigator is available to contact:

Claire Robinson

Trainee Clinical Psychologist                                                        Email: crobinc@essex.ac.uk

This research is being supervised by Dr Leanne Andrews and Dr Syd Hiskey. If you would like to contact them directly, please see the contact details below:

Thank you for taking the time to read this research information.