The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a Self-Compassion Program on body satisfaction, body shame, self-esteem and subjective well-being among female university students with negative body image.

Study participants were composed of the top 35% of female college students on negative body image. The 25 participants were randomly assigned to either a treatment group (n=13) or a control group (n=12). The treatment group participated in weekly, 60-minute Self-Compassion Program sessions in a group format over a 6-week period.

Reports of body dissatisfaction and body shame decreased significantly more in the treatment group compared to the control group, while self-esteem, life satisfaction, and expected life satisfaction scores increased significantly more in the treatment group compared to the control group. There were no significant differences in positive affect and negative affect between groups at post treatment. The one-month follow-up results showed that the beneficial improvements were maintained.

The findings support the efficacy of the Self-Compassion Program on body dissatisfaction, body shame and self-esteem.