The Caring Observer
Creating Self-Compassion through Psychodrama
Keywords:
self-compassion, mindfulness, self-criticism, psychodrama, resilienceAbstract
A growing body of research indicates that self-compassion and self-esteem contribute to
overall optimism and hopefulness. Self-compassion is a more stable and enduring trait in
positive mood states, openness, and resilience and is a stronger healing agent for
depression, anxiety, self-loathing, and self-injurious behaviors. The Caring Observer is a role
created through psychodrama to evoke a warm embrace of the self, the ability to hold
one’s self in kindness through suffering, and the sense of feeling connected to humanity
rather than isolated and ashamed—all traits of self-compassion.
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