Nonattachment Scale Research Articles

Psychometric Properties of Turkish Versions of the Non-Attachment Scale Short Form

This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Non-Attachment Scale Short Form in a Turkish sample. With the participation of 244 adults over 18 years of age, the Short Form of the Nonattachment Scale, the Resilience Scale and the Ontological Addiction Scale were used as data collection tools. Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega coefficient were used for the reliability of the Non-Attachment Scale Short Form. According to the results of the analyses, the internal consistency coefficient and McDonald's value were found to be .77 and .78, respectively. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were used to test the construct validity of the scale. The results of the analyses showed that the model fit and Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) values were at an acceptable level. Item factor loadings ranged between .40 and .67 and the scale was found to have a single factor structure. The statistically significant difference between the 27% lower and upper groups among the participants showed that the item discrimination index of the scale was at a good level. According to the correlation findings conducted to test the criterion validity of the scale, non-attachment was found to have positive significant relationships with resilience (r = .60) and negative significant relationships with ontological dependence (r = -.39). As a result, adaptation of the Short Form of the Non-Attachment Scale can be said to be a valid and reliable measurement tool.

Gender and Social Media Influence on Resilience: Eudaimonic Factors in Young Urban Adults in India

This study investigates the role of eudaimonic factors such as ‘quiet ego’ and ‘non-attachment’ in fostering resilience among young adults in urban India, examining the interplay of these constructs with gender, social media usage, and psychological profiles. Utilising a sample of 200 participants aged 20-25 from urban India, this study employed the ‘Quiet Ego Scale’, ‘Non-attachment Scale’, and ‘The Resilience Scale’. Data were analysed using t-tests and ANOVA on R-Jamovi. The findings indicate significant gender differences, with males exhibiting higher scores in non-attachment and resilience than females. Additionally, participants with lower to moderate social media usage (1-2 hours per day) displayed greater resilience compared to heavy users (more than 3 hours/day). These results suggest that gender and social media habits significantly influence resilience in young adults. This knowledge can inform the development of targeted interventions and support systems that cater to diverse groups based on their unique psychological needs and social habits.

Exploring Hindu-Buddhist Philosophies: The Role of Quiet Ego and Non-Attachment in Fostering Resilience among Young Indians

Rooted in the profound philosophies of Hinduism and Buddhism, this research endeavors to meticulously examine the intricate interrelationships among resilience, the concept of a quiet ego, and non-attachment. The primary objective of this inquiry is to systematically elucidate the contributions of a quiet ego and non-attachment to the psychological well-being and adaptability of the contemporary younger generation confronted with a myriad of complex challenges. The aim is to discern the underlying traits that underpin resilience within the contextual framework of these venerable philosophical traditions. Central to this investigation is the transcendence of the ‘ego’ or ‘Ahaṁkāra’ in Hindu philosophy, wherein the cultivation of a self-concept that is less self-centered and more psychologically flexible assumes paramount significance in navigating adversities. Concurrently, the Buddhist principle of ‘Non-Attachment’ and its Hindu counterpart, ‘Anasakti,’ advocate for relinquishing fixations, material possessions, and desired outcomes. Embracing a psychological stance characterized by acceptance, impermanence, and liberation from life’s tumultuous nature, these principles acquire particular relevance in the Indian context. The contemporary link between a quiet ego, non-attachment, and psychological distress underscores the detrimental impact of excessive self-focus on health, as elucidated by Tayal et al. (2020). To empirically test our proposition, we recruited 200 respondents (20-25 years) from urban regions of India. Utilizing the Quiet Ego scale (QES) (Wayment & Bauer, 2014), Non-attachment scale (NA-7) (Sahdra et al., 2010), and Resilience scale (RS-14) (Wagnild & Young, 1993), our statistical analyses unveiled a robust positive correlation between Quiet Ego (QE), Non-Attachment (NA), and resilience. Furthermore, our study delved into the predictive relationship between QE and NA on resilience, revealing a statistically significant model where both factors positively influenced resilience (p<0.001). This underscores the crucial role of a quiet ego and practicing non-attachment as effective predictors of coping with life stressors. In the broader context, our findings emphasize integrating these concepts into contemplative practices and interventions for a culturally relevant and holistic approach to resilience enhancement. By exploring beyond Western paradigms and integrating principles from Indian Darshanas, such as the ‘Quiet Ego’ and ‘Non-Attachment,’ our research offers a clear and cohesive pathway to a more nuanced understanding of human resilience, facilitating effective coping strategies in the face of life’s challenges. This narrative underscores the profound potential of these cultural elements in cultivating resilience, providing valuable insights for both research and practical applications.

Depression, Anxiety and Stress on Caregivers of Persons with Dementia (CGPWD) in Hong Kong amid COVID-19 Pandemic.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) contributed to increasing prevalence of depressive symptoms and other psychological repercussions, particularly in the disease population in Hong Kong. Nonetheless, the caregiver burden of caregivers of persons with dementia (CGPWD), has been under-investigated. Aims: This study examined the psychological impact and its correlates on the CGPWD in Hong Kong amid the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: CGPWD referred from rehabilitation clinics and online seminar were used to recruit participants to complete an online questionnaire by the end of the second-wave of the COVID-19 outbreak (June 2021). To be eligible, either full-time or part-time CGPWD, aged 18 or above, can understand Cantonese, currently reside in Hong Kong and offering care to PWD for at least one year, were recruited. Those CGPWD diagnosed with any type of psychiatric disorder were excluded from this study. The Chinese Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI-22), and Nonattachment Scale (NAS-7) were used to measure participants’ depression, perceived stress, anxiety symptoms, caregiver burden and wisdom in subjective feelings of internal stress. The modified Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (mMOS-SS) and the SARS Appraisal Inventory (SAI) were also administered to measure participants’ perceived support and coping efficacy. Follow-up responses were gathered by the end of third-wave outbreak (October 2021). Results: A total of 51 CGPWD participated, of which, 33 (64.7%) suffered from probable depression (CES-D score ≥ 16). Participants also showed a significant increase in depression symptom scores at the three-month follow-up period (t = 2.25, p = 0.03). CGPWD with probable depression had less non-attachment awareness and higher scores in anxiety, stress, caregiving burden, and coronavirus impact (all p < 0.05) than those without. Conclusions: High prevalence of depressive symptoms was noted among our CGPWD sample and these symptoms seemed to worsen substantially. Contingent online mental health support should be prioritized to those CGPWD to reduce psychiatric morbidity and the global disease burden.

Lay Meanings and Associated Experiences of Nonattachment (Anasakti): A Study From India

Anasakti, translated as “nonattachment” in English, is one of the important philosophical concepts of Hinduism and Buddhism. It has also been studied in contemporary psychology using various measures of anasakti. However, there is a dearth of studies that have qualitatively investigated anasakti from the lay or “folk” perspective. This mixed-method study aimed to uncover subjective meanings and personal belief systems related to anasakti, as well as practices and experiences related to the lay understanding of anasakti among a sample of 240 urban educated adults (female = 104, male = 136) in India. Three structured scales (Test of asakti –anasakti, Scale of anasakti, Nonattachment Scale) were used to assess the levels of anasakti, while a semistructured questionnaire elicited personal meanings, experiences, and associated behaviors and beliefs related to anasakti. Thematic analysis revealed five broad thematic categories covering the qualitative data: personal meanings of anasakti, experiences, benefits, efficacy, and pathways. Roles of desire and attachment were also discussed. Quantitative results indicated higher levels of anasakti in older age groups, suggesting that anasakti may progress with age. These findings have several implications for future research and interventions.

Development and Validation of the Equanimity Scale-16

Equanimity is a non-reactive attitude that is increasingly recognized as a central component of mindfulness practice and a key mechanism of mindfulness-based interventions that is currently lacking means of measurement. The present study aimed to develop a self-report measure of equanimity, explore its underlying factor structure, validity and reliability. An initial pool of 42 items was selected from existing mindfulness questionnaires and measures of related constructs, and subsequently reviewed by researchers and selected based on majority agreement on their construct validity. The Qualtrics online platform was used to administer these items and other questionnaires used to assess validity and collect demographic information in 223 adults from the general community (66.8% females and 33.2% males, age range = 18–75). Questionnaires were then re-administered to assess test-retest reliability. In agreement with past research, exploratory factor analysis revealed two underlying factors, Experiential Acceptance and Non-reactivity. A final 16-item measure showed good internal consistency (⍺ = .88), test-retest reliability (n = 73; r = .87, p < .001) over 2–6 weeks and convergent and divergent validity, illustrated by significant correlations in the expected direction with the Nonattachment Scale, Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale and Distress Tolerance Scale. Based on this initial study, the Equanimity Scale-16 appears to be a valid and reliable self-report measure to assess trait equanimity, and may be further explored in future studies as a tool to assess progress during mindfulness-based interventions, and to assist in the investigation of their underlying mechanisms.

Feasibility of the Internet Attachment-Based Compassion Therapy in the General Population: Protocol for an Open-Label Uncontrolled Pilot Trial.

BackgroundCompassion-based interventions delivered over the internet are showing promising results for the promotion of psychological health and well-being. Several studies have highlighted their feasibility, acceptance, and preliminary efficacy. However, this is an incipient field of research, and to the best of our knowledge, there are no data available from Spanish-speaking countries.ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to investigate the feasibility, acceptance, and preliminary efficacy of the Internet Attachment–Based Compassion Therapy (iABCT), a web-based version of the Attachment-Based Compassion Therapy, in Spanish speakers from the general population.MethodsThis feasibility study features a single-arm, uncontrolled, within-group design with an embedded qualitative and quantitative process evaluation at baseline, immediately after the intervention and at the 3-month follow-up. A minimum of 35 participants from the general population will be allocated to iABCT. Feasibility measures will include attrition rate, patterns of use of the web-based system, and participants’ acceptability, usability, and opinion. The primary outcome was measured using the Pemberton Happiness Index. Secondary outcomes were measured using the Compassion Scale, Self-Compassion Scale, Forms of Self-Criticizing/Attacking and Self-Reassuring Scale-Short form, Five Facets of Mindfulness Questionnaire, Relationships Questionnaire, General Health Questionnaire, Non-Attachment Scale, International Positive and Negative Affect Schedule Short Form, Purpose-In-Life Test, and difficulties regarding the practice of compassion (Compassion Practice Quality Questionnaire). Mixed models will be used to evaluate primary and secondary outcome measures. A qualitative content analysis of the participants’ qualitative responses will also be performed.ResultsEnrollment started in February 2020 and will be finished in April 2020. Data analysis will start in October 2020.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this study will, for the first time, show data on the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of web-based compassion (and self-compassion) training—that is, the adapted iABCT—in Spanish speakers from the general population. Further aspects of their implementation (ie, facilitators, barriers, and unwanted effects) and mechanisms of change will be investigated. This study will allow the revision and fine-tuning of the developed intervention, study design, and planning procedures, as well as the initiation of a future randomized controlled trial.Trial RegistrationClinicaltrials.gov: NCT03918746. Registered on April 17, 2019. Protocol version 1, 6 March 2019.International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)PRR1-10.2196/16717

The Role of Nonattachment in the Development of Adolescent Mental Health: a Three-Year Longitudinal Study

Nonattachment involves a flexible way of relating to ideas without clinging to them and is hypothesized to be beneficial to mental health. However, no longitudinal research has examined this hypothesis. We conducted a three-wave longitudinal study to examine the extent that nonattachment was an antecedent to improvements in mental health. A large sample of students (males = 1162; females = 1186) from 16 high schools completed the Nonattachment Scale (NAS-7) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) over 3 years in Grades 10, 11, and 12. Nonattachment predicted approximately 4.5% of the variance in mental health measured 1 year later. Supporting an antecedent model, structural equation modeling revealed that nonattachment reliably predicted reductions in poor mental health from Grades 10 to 11 (β = −.091, p = .006) and Grades 11 to 12 (β = −.121, p < .001). The consequence model of poor mental health leading to lower nonattachment was only supported in the Grades 10 to 11(β = −.127, p < .001). Nonattachment protects against the development of poor mental health. Further research into interventions that enhance nonattachment in youth is warranted.

Non-attachment and happiness: mediating versus moderating roles of grit personality

BackgroundStudies have revealed that grit personality and non-attachment are positively associated with happiness. Grittier people are happier while they persist in pursuing their long-term goal, whereas non-attached people are hap-pier as they are not clinging onto any object. These contrasting findings seem to suggest that the two concepts may have some relevancies. Accordingly, this study aims to use the mediator and moderator models to exam-ine whether grit personality either moderates or mediates the effects of non-attachment on happiness.Participants and procedureThree hundred sixty undergraduates were recruited by the purposive sampling method to participate in a survey. They needed to fill in the Short Grit Scale, Non-Attachment Scale and Subjective Happiness Scale.ResultsThe results showed that non-attachment is positively associated with a component of grit; that only persever-ance of efforts, but not consistency of interest, was positively associated with non-attachment. In addition, per-severance of efforts mediates rather than moderates the effects of non-attachment on happiness.ConclusionsThe findings suggesting that non-attached people are happier does not mean they detach from life. They are able to work with perseverance on their long-term goals, but they do not attach to the outcome of their goals. The findings provide further conceptual clarification of grit personality and non-attachment and further infor-mation to educators and program managers while designing programs to improve happiness.

Nonattachment Predicts Empathy, Rejection Sensitivity, and Symptom Reduction After a Mindfulness-Based Intervention Among Young Adults with a History of Childhood Maltreatment.

Individuals with a childhood maltreatment history tend to have various psychological symptoms and impaired social functioning. This study aimed to investigate the related therapeutic effects of a mindfulness-based intervention in this population. We analyzed self-report questionnaire scores of the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Non-Attachment Scale (NAS), Adult Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire (A-RSQ), Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI), PTSD CheckList (PCL), and Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI), from 16 (3 males) young adults (age range 22-29) with mild to moderate childhood maltreatment, compared to 18 matched participants (6 males) on a waiting list, during both pre- and post-intervention/waiting periods. Analyses were conducted with linear mixed effects models, partial correlation analyses and t-tests. There were group by time interaction effects with the scores of MAAS, NAS, PCL, IRI-Fantasy, and A-RSQ (p < .05). The mindfulness group had significant increase in MAAS (17.325%) and NAS (8.957%) scores, as well as reduction in PCL (15.599%) and A-RSQ (23.189%) scores (p < .05). Changes in non-attachment, but not mindfulness, had significant contributions to the score changes of PCL (16.375%), ASI (36.244%), IRI-Personal Distress (24.141%), IRI-Empathic Concern (16.830%), and A-RSQ (10.826%) (p < .05). The number of intervention sessions attended was correlated with score changes of NAS (r = .955, p < .001), and ASI (r = -.887, p < .001), suggesting a dose-dependent effect. Findings from this pilot study suggest that the mindfulness-based intervention improved mindfulness, non-attachment and empathy, which contributed to reduced interpersonal distress, rejection sensitivity and other psychological symptoms.

Positive and Negative Emotions and Nonattachment in Vietnamese Buddhists

Several research has shown that nonattachment, a Buddhist practice, could reduce negative emotions and improve positive emotions (Sahdra &amp; Shaver, 2013; Sahdra, Shaver, &amp; Brown, 2010; Wang, Wong, &amp; Yeh, 2016; Wendling, 2012). We aimed to explore such influences in a sample of Vietnamese Buddhists (N = 472). Our methods included the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI; Spielberger et al., 1983), the Nonattachment Scale (NAS; Sahdra et al., 2010), and a demographic and religious questionnaire. Results showed that positive emotion scores (M = 2.89, SD = .502) of participants were significantly higher than that of their negative emotion scores (M = 2.10, SD = .587, p &lt; .001). People with strong religious commitment such as monks, lay-people who practiced at pagoda, and lay-people who practiced with sangha had higher positive emotion scores and less negative emotion scores than those whose religious commitment were weak. Nonattachment was positively correlated with positive emotions (r = .47, p &lt; .01) and negatively correlated with negative emotions (r = -.37, p &lt; .01). Nonattachment could also explain 21.7% positive emotions variance (p &lt; .001) and 12.4% negative emotions variance (p &lt; .001). Nonattachment and religious commitment could, therefore, influence greatly positive emotions in Buddhists. This result suggested a discussion about applying nonattachment to prevent emotional problems and improve psychological well-being.

Development of the Nonattachment Scale-Short Form (NAS-SF) Using Item Response Theory

Research on nonattachment has consistently shown that it is conducive to psychological well-being and interpersonal outcomes. However, there is a lack of rapid assessment that can provide valid and reliable measure among individuals with different levels of nonattachment. The present study aimed at developing a short form of the Nonattachment Scale (NAS) under the item response theory framework. Study 1 recruited 1019 participants who were mainly students and they completed the Nonattachment Scale. Based on the item information and item location, eight items were selected that yielded satisfactory internal consistency and test information. In study 2, 393 college students were recruited and the criterion validity of the 8-item Nonattachment Scale - Short Form (NAS-SF) was examined. Results showed that the 8-item NAS-SF was correlated with mindfulness (r = .54), mental well-being measures (rs = .46 to .54), psychological distress measures (rs = − .48 to − .57), and social/interpersonal measures (rs = .24 to .41). Findings suggested that the 8-item NAS-SF is a reliable and valid measure that can be applied to individuals with different levels of nonattachment in an efficient way.

한국판 비집착 척도의 신뢰도 및 타당도 연구

본 연구에서는 비집착을 측정하는 도구로 개발된 Sahdra 등(2010)의 비집착척도(Scale to measure Nonattachment)를 국내 문화에 적합하게 번안하여, 한국판 비집착척도(K-Nonattachment Scale)를 구성하였고 이 척도에 대한 신뢰도 및 타당도를 검증하였다. 그 결과, K-NAS는 내적 합치도 계수(<TEX>${\alpha}$</TEX>)가 .94로 높게 나타났고, 문항- 총점 간 상관 계수도 .32에서 .69 정도로 나타났다. 탐색적 요인 분석 결과, 이 척도는 단일 요인 모델로 전체 변량의 37.77%를 설명하였다. 확인적 요인 분석결과 1요인 모델의 적합도가 양호한 것으로 나타났다. 또한, 공존타당도 및 변별타당도를 살펴보기 위해 관련 척도와 상관분석을 한 결과 우울과는 부적인 상관을 보였으며, 경험척도, 자기자비, 심리적 안녕감, 마음챙김 척도와는 정적 상관을 보였다. 이러한 결과를 통해, 한국판 비집착척도는 심리측정적으로 매우 신뢰롭고 타당한 척도임이 확인되었다. 마지막으로 연구 결과의 의의와 추후 연구 방향에 대해 논의하였다. In this study, we tested the reliability and validity of the Korean Version of nonattachment scale(K-NAS) that Sahdra et al., had developed to measure for nonattachment. In result, the internal consistency coefficient(Cronbach's alpha) of the K-NAS was (.94) high, correlation coefficients of item-total were to .32 from .69. The result of factor analysis showed that single factor accounted for 37.77 % of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis and additional exploratory factor analysis demonstrated that the 1 factor model was satisfactory. K-NAS was positively related to experiences scale, self-compassion, psychological well-being and mindfulness, and negatively related to depression. These findings suggest that the Korean Version of Nonattachment Scale(K-NAS) was reliable and valid scale to measure for nonattachment. Finally, The implication of this study and direction for future study were discussed.

Psychological Effects of a 1-Month Meditation Retreat on Experienced Meditators: The Role of Non-attachment.

Background: There are few studies devoted to assessing the impact of meditation-intensive retreats on the well-being, positive psychology, and personality of experienced meditators. We aimed to assess whether a 1-month Vipassana retreat: (a) would increase mindfulness and well-being; (b) would increase prosocial personality traits; and (c) whether psychological changes would be mediated and/or moderated by non-attachment.Method: A controlled, non-randomized, pre-post-intervention trial was used. The intervention group was a convenience sample (n = 19) of experienced meditators who participated in a 1-month Vipassana meditation retreat. The control group (n = 19) comprised matched experienced meditators who did not take part in the retreat. During the retreat, the mean duration of daily practice was 8–9 h, the diet was vegetarian and silence was compulsory. The Experiences Questionnaire (EQ), Non-attachment Scale (NAS), Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), Temperament Character Inventory Revised (TCI-R-67), Five Facets Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), Self-Other Four Immeasurables (SOFI) and the MINDSENS Composite Index were administered. ANCOVAs and linear regression models were used to assess pre-post changes and mediation/moderation effects.Results: Compared to controls, retreatants showed increases in non-attachment, observing, MINDSENS, positive-affect, balance-affect, and cooperativeness; and decreases in describing, negative-others, reward-dependence and self-directedness. Non-attachment had a mediating role in decentring, acting aware, non-reactivity, negative-affect, balance-affect and self-directedness; and a moderating role in describing and positive others, with both mediating and moderating effects on satisfaction with life.Conclusions: A 1-month Vipassana meditation retreat seems to yield improvements in mindfulness, well-being, and personality, even in experienced meditators. Non-attachment might facilitate psychological improvements of meditation, making it possible to overcome possible ceiling effects ascribed to non-intensive practices.

Psychometric Properties of the Spanish Version of the Nonattachment Scale (NAS) and Its Relationship with Mindfulness, Decentering, and Mental Health

Nonattachment is a Buddhism-rooted construct, which can be defined as the relative absence of fixation on ideas, images, or sensory objects, as well as an absence of internal pressure to get, hold, avoid, or change circumstances or experiences. The present study was aimed at exploring the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Nonattachment Scale (NAS) and at delimitating the relationship between the NAS and measures of mindfulness, decentering, and negative emotional symptoms. Pooling the NAS data from Spanish meditators (n = 335) and nonmeditators (n = 270), we performed an exploratory factor analysis and then estimated the fit of two competing models (one-factor model vs. one-factor model + method effects) via confirmatory factor analysis. Data analyses showed that the Spanish version of the NAS is unifactorial in nature and has excellent internal consistency. As expected, high (positive) significant correlations were found between NAS and mindfulness and decentering measures, as well as high significant (negative) relations between NAS and depression, anxiety, and stress scores. Positive relations were also observed between NAS and variables of meditation practice. Large differences among the meditative, nonmeditative, and clinical groups (n = 39 patients with borderline personality disorder) were observed regarding NAS scores. Scores on the NAS were significant predictors of negative emotional symptoms (depression, anxiety, and stress) and, especially, resilience. Furthermore, NAS provided a unique contribution in the regression models, going beyond mindfulness facets and decentering. In conclusion, the Spanish version of the NAS is a psychometrically sound instrument with a promising future in the field of mindfulness and meditation research and in clinical settings.

Assessing Mechanisms of Mindfulness: Improving the Precision of the Nonattachment Scale Using a Rasch Model

Nonattachment, or the lack of possessive and mental fixations and clinging, is considered a key element by which mindfulness cultivates psychological wellbeing. The 30-item Nonattachment Scale (NAS) is a measure of nonattachment, but its item functioning and measurement precision remain to be explored. The present study used a Rasch model to examine 434 participants’ responses to the NAS. Disordered thresholds were corrected by uniform item re-scoring. Satisfactory model fit was achieved after removing four misfitting items and combining locally dependent items into sub-tests. NAS item functioning improved significantly following these minor modifications. In addition, by combining particular response options upon scoring, researchers can utilize our modified version without the need to alter current response formatting, thus offering them greater precision in their measurement of nonattachment. Ordinal-to-interval conversion tables presented in the manuscript further increases precision of our proposed 26-item version of the instrument and enables use of the scale without the need to violate fundamental assumptions of parametric statistics.

Nonattachment and mindfulness: Related but distinct constructs.

In this study, we examined whether nonattachment, a relatively new construct in the mindfulness literature, showed convergent, discriminant, and incremental validity in relation to the well-studied 5 facets of mindfulness. Mindfulness was defined as a multifaceted construct including observing, describing, acting with awareness, nonjudging, and nonreactivity; and measured using the recently validated, 20-item Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ; Tran, Glück, & Nader, 2013; Baer, Smith, Hopkins, Krietemeyer, & Toney, 2006). Nonattachment was defined as a flexible, balanced way of relating to one's experiences without clinging to or suppressing them, and measured using the 7-item Nonattachment Scale (NAS-7; Elphinstone, Sahdra, & Ciarrochi, 2015; Sahdra, Shaver, & Brown, 2015). In a large nationally representative sample of Americans (N = 7,884; 52% women; age, M = 47.9, SD = 16), nonattachment was positively related to all 5 aspects of mindfulness. Structural equation modeling showed that the 20-item FFMQ and NAS-7 showed good fit; their factor structures were invariant across genders and age groups; and NAS-7 was empirically distinguishable from the 5 mindfulness facets. Hierarchical regression models provided evidence of the incremental validity of NAS-7. Finally, mediation models showed that nonattachment substantially mediated the links between the mindfulness facets and the outcome variables of satisfaction with life and life effectiveness. (PsycINFO Database Record

A Scale to Measure Nonattachment: A Buddhist Complement to Western Research on Attachment and Adaptive Functioning

The Buddhist notion of “nonattachment” (release from mental fixations) is related to but distinguishable from the Western construct of attachment. Secure (or insecure) attachment is based on internal working models related to security (or insecurity), whereas nonattachment is based on insight into the constructed and impermanent nature of mental representations. Based on historical and contemporary Buddhist scholarship, we designed the Nonattachment Scale and evaluated its psychometric properties in various samples. We also present evidence consistent with Buddhist theory that nonattachment is psychologically and socially adaptive, and we offer directions for further research on nonattachment.