Mindfulness training as a clinical intervention: A conceptual and empirical review.

Mindfulness-based interventions, which train individuals to focus attention on present-moment experiences through meditation, show promise for treating several psychological disorders. A review of conceptual approaches and empirical studies, incorporating meta-analytic techniques, finds that while the existing research contains many methodological flaws, the evidence suggests these interventions may be beneficial. More rigorous investigations are needed to confirm their effectiveness.

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Abstract

Interventions based on training in mindfulness skills are becoming increasingly popular. Mindfulness involves intentionally bringing one’s attention to the internal and external experiences occurring in the present moment, and is often taught through a variety of meditation exercises. This review summarizes conceptual approaches to mindfulness and empirical research on the utility of mindfulnessbased interventions. Meta-analytic techniques were incorporated to facilitate quantification of findings and comparison across studies. Although the current empirical literature includes many methodological flaws, findings suggest that mindfulness-based interventions may be helpful in the treatment of several disorders. Methodologically sound investigations are recommended in order to clarify the utility of these interventions.