Buddhist psychology, psychotherapy and the brain: a critical introduction.
Buddhist psychology is increasingly informing psychotherapeutic practice in the western world. This article: (a) provides a general background to Buddhist tradition; (b) outlines the central tenets of Buddhist psychology, with particular emphasis on the practice of meditation; (c) provides an overview of research into the effects of Buddhist practice on the brain; (d) outlines the relationships between Buddhist psychology and existing forms of psychotherapy; (e) provides an overview of Buddhist approaches to specific psychiatric disorders and the psychological aspects of physical disorders; and (f) discusses the emergence of Buddhist psychotherapy in western societies and explores likely future developments. There is a need for further research into the neuroscientific correlates of Buddhist concepts of mind and the evidence-base for the use of specific techniques (e.g., meditation) in psychotherapeutic practice.
Kelly
Brendan D
BD
University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland. brendankelly35@gmail.com
D001921:Brain / Q000502:physiology*; D002016:Buddhism; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D019122:Meditation; D011584:Psychology; D011613:Psychotherapy