Abstract
More clinicians are using mindfulness-based therapeutic strategies; however, Evangelical Christian clients sometimes worry about the Buddhist origins of these treatments. Christian accommodative mindfulness (CAM) attempts to address these concerns with culturally sensitive adaptations to mindfulness methods. We present a definition of CAM and propose some worldview adjustments to typical mindfulness constructs when working with these clients. The empirical research on Christian-derived meditation strategies and Christian-adapted mindfulness strategies will then be reviewed. We introduce a four-session group CAM protocol currently being researched that focuses on scripture meditation, breath meditation, body awareness, and loving-kindness meditation. Sample scripts are included.
Highlights
Religions 13: 63. https://doi.org/Scientific western psychology often studies various religious groups through an etic lens that examines religious experiences in a distant manner from the particular populations being investigated (Kim et al 2000)
In contrast to the robust empirical support that exists for mindfulness-based secular therapies (Chua et al 2021; Elices et al 2017; Williams et al 2008; Goldin and Gross 2010), Christian accommodative mindfulness (CAM) research is at an early stage of development
Outcomes-based empirical studies can be divided into the two categories based on the type of meditation strategies that make up CAM (Christian-derived methods and adapted mindfulness methods)
Summary
Scientific western psychology often studies various religious groups through an etic lens that examines religious experiences in a distant manner from the particular populations being investigated (Kim et al 2000). More emic, indigenous psychologies for religious populations are being developed (Sisemore and Knabb 2020) This approach holds promise for the Evangelical Christian population regarding mindfulness. Christians derive from numerous Protestant denominations and represent a diverse group They believe in salvation by grace through faith in Christ’s atonement as a key doctrine (Noll 2003). We define CAM and examine Evangelical worries that can impede mindfulness treatment. We present our own four-session Christian accommodative mindfulness protocol as an example of what CAM treatment might look like. We hope this protocol will help non-Christian and Christian mental health professionals to provide culturally sensitive and more effective treatment when working with this population. To begin describing aspects of CAM, we must first define it
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