Abstract
Self-related processes (SRPs) have been theorized as key mechanisms of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), but the evidence supporting these theories is currently unclear. This evidence map introduces a comprehensive framework for different types of SRPs, and how they are theorized to function as mechanisms of MBIs (target identification). The evidence map then assesses SRP target engagement by mindfulness training and the relationship between target engagement and outcomes (target validation). Discussion of the measurement of SRPs is also included. The most common SRPs measured and engaged by standard MBIs represented valenced evaluations of self-concept, including rumination, self-compassion, self-efficacy, and self-esteem. Rumination showed the strongest evidence as a mechanism for depression, with other physical and mental health outcomes also supported. Self-compassion showed consistent target engagement but was inconsistently related to improved outcomes. Decentering and interoception are emerging potential mechanisms, but their construct validity and different subcomponents are still in development. While some embodied self-specifying processes are being measured in cross-sectional and meditation induction studies, very few have been assessed in MBIs. The SRPs with the strongest mechanistic support represent positive and negative evaluations of self-concept. In sum, few SRPs have been measured in MBIs, and additional research using well-validated measures is needed to clarify their role as mechanisms.
Highlights
Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), the most common of which are Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT; Teasdale et al, 2002; Segal et al, 2013) and Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR; Kabat-Zinn, 1982, 2013), are widely used to improve mental and physical health and to promote health behavior changes (Goldberg et al, 2021)
The self-related processes (SRPs) assay must be reliably engaged by mindfulness meditation training, and the degree of SRP target engagement must account for the change in desired outcomes
Self-related processes are a promising area of research for investigating mechanisms of mindfulness-based interventions
Summary
Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), the most common of which are Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT; Teasdale et al, 2002; Segal et al, 2013) and Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR; Kabat-Zinn, 1982, 2013), are widely used to improve mental and physical health and to promote health behavior changes (Goldberg et al, 2021). As with other types of interventions, the mechanisms of MBIs are not well delineated. Theoretical models suggest that self-related processes (SRPs) may be important mechanistic targets of MBIs (Goldin et al, 2009; Hölzel et al, 2011; Vago and Silbersweig, 2012; Carlson, 2013; Desbordes, 2019), but it is unclear to what extent these theories are supported by empirical evidence. The primary goals of this evidence map are: (1) to identify which SRPs have been theorized to play a mediational role in MBIs; (2) to evaluate the extent to which these theories have been empirically investigated; and (3) to provide recommendations for future research. The review of the evidence provides commentary on the measurement of SRPs, highlights limitations in extant research, and identifies areas that require more clarification
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