Understanding self-criticism from personal and professional perspectives

Section A:
This review aimed to investigate individuals’ experiences of self-criticism. A systematic literature search was conducted. Eight qualitative studies were identified, and their quality was assessed. Thematic synthesis was used to identify four central themes: Originsand triggers of self-criticism past and present; qualities of self-criticism as harsh and
distorting; known and unknown impacts of self-criticism; and self-criticism as a survival mechanism, achievement motivator or moralising force. Twelve subthemes were also identified. The review outlined clinical and research implications of findings.

Section B:
This study aimed to investigate how UK based clinical psychologists understand and work with people who are highly self-critical in practice. Ten psychologists were recruited
via social media and interviewed. Data was analysed using grounded theory. Two contextual categories were identified: Self-criticism as common and yet exists in a “blind-spot” in
mental health; and psychologists’ own experiences of self-criticism and difference. Three main categories were identified: Understanding client’s personal and/or shared critics; recognising the “size” and “influence”; and working with the “clinical gut” to integrate models and ideas. Study limitations were discussed, along with clinical and research
recommendations