Current opinion in psychology
August 1, 2019
Poppy la Schoenberg, David R Vago
59 citations
The exploration of human consciousness, specifically how brain structure and function produce the mind, remains a frontier in neuroscience. Mindfulness and contemplative practices involve systematic mental training that can develop the mind in quantifiable ways. While some electrophysiological markers of meditation have been identified, fundamental questions remain: how to classify discrete 'mind states' of consciousness in line with phenomenological experience for ontological quantification; what measures best represent such classification; and whether current electrophysiological approaches can map developmentally specified mind states to neurobiological substrates, given ongoing debates about EEG band functionality and underlying mechanisms.
Current opinion in psychology
August 1, 2019
Wendy Hasenkamp
15 citations
Modern mindfulness research draws on both science and Buddhist philosophy, but the Buddhist origins of meditation practices are frequently overlooked. This paper argues that Buddhist concepts remain valuable for studying the mind in contemplative science, discussing their role in the field's development and their current influence on neurophenomenology, subjective experience, attention, self, and prosocial qualities.
Current opinion in psychology
April 1, 2025
Matthias Forstmann, Christina Sagioglou
11 citations
Psychedelics may increase feelings of connectedness to both nature and other people. This review synthesizes evidence that these substances facilitate self-expansion through ego dissolution, which temporarily alters self-boundaries, and enhanced emotional processing, which increases empathic concern. The authors propose a multidimensional model of connectedness distinguishing perceptual, emotional, and epistemic domains, each showing distinct patterns in acute and enduring effects. Interpretation is complicated by methodological challenges including functional unblinding, reliance on self-reports, and small sample sizes. Future research would benefit from behavioral measures, active placebos, and careful consideration of contextual factors.
Current opinion in psychology
February 1, 2026
Karin Matko, Nicholas T. Van Dam
4 citations
Mindfulness and meditation can cause adverse effects, including anxiety, depression, and traumatic re-experiencing, with 25-87% of practitioners reporting such effects and 3-37% experiencing functional impairment like inability to work. It is unclear whether these effects are temporary or lasting. Retreat attendance and pre-existing mental health conditions may increase risk, though causality is not established. The review recommends thorough screening, informed consent, and ongoing monitoring in clinical practice, along with setting clear expectations, offering psychoeducational support, and adapting interventions when appropriate to balance benefits and risks.