When it really counts: Investigating the relation between trait mindfulness and actual prosocial behavior

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Meta-analyses suggest a positive link between trait mindfulness and prosociality.
• Previous research predominantly used self-report measures, limiting objective behavioral insights.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between trait mindfulness and actual prosocial behavior.
• To examine mindfulness as a multi-dimensional trait and its specific aspects.
• To test guilt as a potential moderator of the mindfulness-prosocial behavior link.

Main Methods:

• Two studies with four samples (N=1240) were conducted.
• Prosocial behavior was assessed via charitable donations and an incentivized economic game.
• Trait mindfulness was examined as a multi-dimensional construct.

Main Results:

• No significant positive association was found between trait mindfulness and charitable donation.
• No significant positive association was found between trait mindfulness and behavior in an incentivized economic game.
• The moderating effect of guilt was inconclusive.

Conclusions:

• The findings do not support a direct positive link between trait mindfulness and prosocial behavior.
• Trait mindfulness may play a more complex role in prosocial behavior than previously indicated.
• Further research is needed to clarify the nuanced relationship and boundary conditions.