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Mindfulness induction and cognition: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Louis-Nascan Gill1, Robin Renault2, Emma Campbell2
1Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, 100 Sherbrooke Street, Montreal, Quebec H2X 3P2, Canada.
Consciousness and Cognition
|August 3, 2020
Summary
Mindfulness meditation may enhance cognitive functions, particularly higher-order cognitive skills. This meta-analysis found a small but significant improvement in complex cognitive tasks after brief mindfulness induction.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Mindfulness Studies
Background:
- Mindfulness meditation is increasingly studied for its cognitive benefits.
- Existing evidence on mindfulness and cognition is fragmented, necessitating a comprehensive review.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically assess the impact of brief mindful attention induction on various cognitive processes.
- To synthesize findings from existing research through a preregistered meta-analysis.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis was conducted on 34 studies retrieved from major scientific databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, Web of Science).
- Cognitive outcomes were categorized into attentional functioning, memory, executive functioning, and higher-order functions.
- Statistical analysis used Hedges' g to quantify effect sizes.
Main Results:
- A small overall effect of mindfulness induction on cognition was observed (Hedges' g = 0.18).
- Significant improvements were specifically noted in higher-order cognitive functions (k = 10, Hedges' g = 0.35).
- No evidence of publication bias was detected, though methodological flaws were common.
Conclusions:
- Brief mindfulness induction appears to enhance cognitive performance, especially in tasks requiring complex higher-order functions.
- Further research with rigorous methodologies is needed to confirm these findings and explore underlying mechanisms.
Keywords:
AttentionCognitionExecutive functionsHigher-order functionsMemoryMeta-analysisMindfulness inductionMindfulness meditationSystematic reviewMore Related Videos
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