A brief self-compassionate reflective writing task can manage negative reactions following an eating transgression

Abstract

Objective: This study investigated the efficacy of brief 3-minute reflective writing tasks to manage reactions following an upsetting self-perceived eating transgression. Methods: Participants (N = 270) identified their own recent upsetting eating scenario and were randomised to complete a writing task encouraging either self-reflective re-construal or self-compassion. All state outcomes were measured immediately pre- and post-intervention, except for state self-compassion which was measured at post-intervention only. Eating regulation and healthy eating behaviours were reported by participants who completed the follow-up (N = 187, 69.3% of the original sample) two weeks after the intervention. Results: Both writing tasks resulted in reduced anxiety, and increased confidence and self-esteem, at post-intervention. The self-compassion writing task led to higher state self-compassion, and lower general negative affect and depression, than the self-reflective re-construal writing task. Moreover, participants in the self-compassion group reported eating a healthier and more balanced diet during the follow-up period than participants in the self-reflection group. Conclusions: The current study has provided further evidence for the efficacy of brief self-compassionate reflective writing to regulate negative affectivity and promote healthy eating behaviours in a non-clinical sample, thus revealing important potential application for this approach in the context of eating pathology and lifestyle-related chronic disease.