Research

Mindfulness Training Affects Attention—Or Is It Attentional Effort?

Previous research has shown the benefits of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) in increasing attention when compared to a control group with no meditation training or other incentive. This article investigates the effects of MBSR on attention when compared to non-mindfulness stress based reduction (NMSR) and financial incentive practices. Selective attention in the MBSR group improved significantly more than in any other group. Similarly, only MBSR improved the conscious perception and visual working memory capacity. In addition, the MBSR group showed significantly less perceived and physiological stress. MBSR has stress-relieving properties that are more significant than other stress-relieving techniques.

Citation

Jensen, C., Vangkilde, S., Frokjaer, V., & Hasselbalch, S. (2011). Mindfulness training affects attention—or is it attentional effort? Journal of Experimental Psychology, 141(1), 106-123.

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