Treating Self-criticism in Adolescents: a Study With Single-case Experimental Design

In this pilot study, the effect of a group intervention targeting self-criticism in adolescents in a clinical child- and adolescent psychiatric outpatient setting will be examined using a single-case experimental design (AB). Participants will be randomized to multiple baseline with weekly measures. Our primary outcomes, measured weekly, are self-criticism, nonsuicidal self-injury and symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as an individually chosen behavior driven by self-criticism. Secondary outcomes are self-compassion, psychological flexibility, quality of life and functioning. In addition to the weekly administered questionnaires, before and after measures, and 3- and 6-month follow-up will be collected. After the treatment, participants will also be interviewed about their experiences of targeting self-criticism.