Effects of Self‐Compassion Workbook Training on Trauma‐Related Guilt in a Sample of Homeless Veterans: A Pilot Study

Objective The present pilot study examined the effects of a 4‐week‐long self‐administered self‐compassion training on trauma‐related guilt and compared it to a stress inoculation control group. Method A total of 47 homeless male veterans who were living in transitional housing facilities volunteered to participate in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to either a self‐compassion ( N = 13) or a stress inoculation ( N = 14) group and were asked to complete pre‐, mid‐, and postintervention assessments measuring changes in self‐compassion, trauma‐related guilt, and posttraumatic stress disorder severity. Results Participants in both interventions reported increased levels of self‐compassion and equal reductions in trauma‐related guilt. No other significant changes were noted. Conclusions The results from this pilot study provide preliminary evidence for the use of self‐compassion and stress inoculation trainings as effective interventions for trauma‐related guilt. The findings also suggest that self‐administered trainings in the form of workbooks may be a viable, cost‐effective form of intervention for disadvantaged populations, such as homeless veterans in transitional housing, who may lack resources or access to professionals or paraprofessionals. The effects of both self‐compassion training and stress inoculation training on the study variables and directions for future research on self‐compassion and trauma‐related guilt are discussed.