Professional Ethics and Personal Values in Mindfulness-Based Programs: A Secular Psychological Perspective

Abstract

This chapter considers ethical foundations of mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) in contemporary secular settings. Two complementary ways of thinking about ethics in this context are addressed. First, we discuss the codes of ethics that guide the conduct of health care and mental health professionals in the delivery of their services, including MBPs. Second, we describe evidence-based methods for helping participants in MBPs identify their values and strengthen their values-consistent behavior. We offer these perspectives in response to discussions in the mindfulness field of the role of ethics training in MBPs. In Buddhist teachings, where most mindfulness practices have their roots, mindfulness training is embedded in an ethical framework that includes explicit instruction in benevolent conduct and precepts against harmful behavior. In contrast, most contemporary MBPs avoid explicit instruction in ethical behavior, both to ensure their suitability for secular settings and because ethics codes for the health care and mental health professions typically require respect for diversity and self-determination. This chapter argues for an approach to ethics in MBPs that is grounded in professional codes of ethics for mindfulness-based teachers and the psychological science of personal values.