The Three Systems

Understand the three-system model of emotions and motivations, promoting balance through compassion-focused therapy (CFT). Taken from the Psychology Tools For Developing Self-Compassion audio collection.

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Audio track (MP3)

A therapy audio track designed for skills development.

Audio script (PDF)

The script for a therapy audio track. Read along with an exercise, or record in your own voice.

Overview

Self-compassion is a helpful skill for emotional well-being. The Psychology Tools For Developing Self-Compassion audio collection provides a structured approach to developing self-compassion using principles from compassion focused therapy (CFT). CFT is an evidence-based psychological approach that integrates evolutionary, cognitive, and affective neuroscience to help individuals cultivate compassion and alleviate high levels of shame and self-criticism.

Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) introduces the concept of the three-system model to comprehend how our emotions and motivations operate. This model introduces three systems: threat, drive, and soothing. Each motivational system evolved to serve distinct functions, and is associated with distinct emotional experiences and motivational drives. CFT uses this model to formulate distress and identifies the cultivation of compassion as a path to finding balance.