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The Effect of Mindfulness Training on Proactive and Reactive Cognitive Control
Yunyun Li1, Fang Liu2, Qin Zhang1
1Beijing Key Laboratory of Learning and Cognition, Department of Psychology, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China.
Frontiers in Psychology
|July 6, 2018
Summary
Mindfulness training may enhance proactive control, aiding goal preparation. This study found mindfulness practice improved proactive control strategies, but not reactive control, suggesting benefits for managing interference.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Mindfulness Research
Background:
- Mindfulness practice is linked to improved general cognitive control.
- The dual mechanisms of control (DMC) model differentiates proactive and reactive control strategies.
- Limited research explores mindfulness's impact on specific control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of mindfulness training on proactive and reactive control.
- To examine how mindfulness influences distinct cognitive control strategies as defined by the DMC model.
- To assess changes in cognitive control using the AX version of the Continuous Performance Test (AX-CPT).
Main Methods:
- Thirty participants were randomly assigned to an 8-week mindfulness training or control group.
- Cognitive control was assessed using the AX-CPT before and after the intervention.
- Mindfulness levels were measured using the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ).
Main Results:
- The mindfulness training group showed a trend toward improved proactive control, indicated by fewer errors on BX trials and a higher Behavior Shift Index (BSI) of reaction time (RT).
- A positive correlation was found between the BSI of RT and observing scores on the FFMQ, linking mindfulness attention to proactive control.
- Reactive control, measured by errors on AY trials, did not differ significantly between groups.
Conclusions:
- Eight weeks of mindfulness training may enhance proactive control, supporting goal preparation and maintenance.
- Mindfulness training shows potential for improving the ability to overcome interference.
- The findings support the role of attentional components in mindfulness for enhancing proactive control.
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