Compassion Questionnaire for Others (CQO)

Much of prior research has concentrated on self-compassion, neglecting compassion for others. Current conceptualizations and operationalizations of compassion for others present notable shortcomings, including the incorporation of mindfulness in their definitions. To address these issues, the Compassion Questionnaire for Others (CQO) was developed, which integrates affective, cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal dimensions. This questionnaire was developed through consultations with experts and graduate students and validated through three studies. Results indicated three independent dimensions, with the affective and cognitive dimensions converging. Furthermore, scores on this questionnaire were sensitive to mindfulness training, meditation experience, and predictive of social functioning. The CQO introduces a novel approach to assessing compassion for others that is independent from mindfulness, with significant theoretical and practical implications. The items and scoring of the CQO are presented.