Publications [#385495] of Jinyoung Park

Journal Articles

1. Lathren, CR; Ratliff, ML; Tatera, JL; Ellsworth, R; Park, J; Allen, H (2025). A qualitative exploration of self-compassion for caregivers of children with physical disabilities.. Rehabilitation psychology. [doi]
   (last updated on 2026/01/20)

   Abstract:
   

   Purpose/objective

   Caregivers of children with physical disabilities face unique stressors and experience high levels of anxiety, depression, and burnout. In general, self-compassion-based skills are associated with decreased psychological distress and increased well-being. However, the nuances of why or how self-compassion may promote the psychological well-being in caregivers of children with physical disabilities are unknown. Using qualitative data, this study explores the relevance of self-compassion in supporting caregivers' psychological well-being from multiple perspectives.

   Method

   We conducted 13 semistructured interviews with community service providers, a group feedback session with seven caregiver advisors, and a feedback session with eight caregivers who had recently completed a self-compassion-based resilience course. Transcripts were analyzed by two coders using reflexive thematic analysis.

   Results

   We developed three themes regarding how self-compassion skills may promote caregivers' psychological well-being within the context of caregiving: (a) balancing "gritting through" with increased awareness and expression of emotions and needs, (b) balancing isolation with increased connection, and (c) balancing self-judgment with increased grace and self-advocacy.

   Conclusion

   Self-compassion skills may benefit caregivers in specific ways in the context of caring for a child with a physical disability. Self-compassion-based interventions that target and measure these unique factors are promising for alleviating psychological distress for this community. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).