Master's Theses

Department

Psychology

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

Mindfulness meditation has become increasing popular in the Western world the last few decades. Although the research in the area of mindfulness is just beginning, many studies report positive benefits to individuals who learn this type of meditation. This study compares the perceived stress levels of college students who report common characteristics of individuals who practice mindfulness meditation against college students who do not report those common characteristics of mindfulness. The student’s level of mindfulness was measured using the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire while the Measurement of Stressful Life Events was used to determine the student’s perceived stress levels to recent events. Results showed that mindfulness is inversely correlated with current stress levels for recent life events. In addition, meditation experience was also found to be inversely correlated with current stress levels for recent life events. Finally, the results indicated a gender difference with respect to mindfulness but not a gender difference with respect to stress. Specifically, males scored higher than females in mindfulness but males and females reported similar levels of stress. There is still much to learn about mindfulness and stress. This study serves as a small part of the many studies being conducted to better understand these variables and their relationship to one another.

Keywords

mindfulness, meditation, stress, MBCT, MBSR

Advisor

Dr. Jennifer Bonds-Raacke

Date of Award

Summer 2012

Document Type

Thesis

Rights

© The Author(s)

Comments

For questions contact ScholarsRepository@fhsu.edu

Download


Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

COinS