A qualitative study of compassion from the perspective of adolescents: a foundation for counselling practice

Compassion is a form of sensitivity to self and others’ suffering with a commitment to alleviate and prevent it, and is an important component of counselling practice. Past research has mostly focused on adults’ experiences and views on compassion, which may not be applicable to young people. This study used an exploratory qualitative multiple case study design to explore how adolescents story compassion. Interviews with twelve adolescents aged 12–17 years were analysed using theory-informed deductive and inductive reflexive thematic analysis. Six themes were identified: “The relational aspect of compassion”; “The social aspect of compassion”; “Positive outcomes for self”; “The challenges and difficulties surrounding compassion”; “Kindness is key”; and “The universality of compassion”. Findings from this study can inform the practice of counsellors to explore and promote compassion-focused conversations with adolescents. Further research is recommended to understand the implementation and outcomes of integrating compassion in counselling practice with adolescents.