The effect of mindfulness training on improving attention and executive function in children with mild to borderline intellectual disability.
Applied neuropsychology. Child – May 12, 2025
Source: PubMed
Summary
Mindfulness training significantly enhances attention and executive function in children with borderline intellectual functioning. In a study involving 60 children aged 7 to 9, those who participated in 24 sessions of mindfulness training showed marked improvements. Specifically, the mindfulness group scored higher in inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility compared to the control group. This suggests that targeted mindfulness interventions can effectively support cognitive development in children facing intellectual challenges, ultimately fostering better academic and social outcomes.
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of mindfulness training on improving attention and executive function in children with mild to borderline intellectual functioning. Two groups of children participated in the study. The first group consisted of 30 children with borderline intellectual functioning, ages ranging from 7 years to 9 years. A group of 30 children, ages ranging from 7 years to 9 years, formed a comparison group. The effect of mindfulness training on improving attention and executive function in children with borderline intellectual functioning and mild intellectual disability were assessed using pre- and post test design. The mindfulness group received 24 sessions of mindfulness training, while the control group received no training at all. The results showed that the post-test scores of inhibitory control, working memory, cognitive flexibility and the total score of children in mindfulness group are significantly higher than those in control group.