title: Cognitive effects of MBSR/MBCT: A systematic review of neuropsychological outcomes.
abstract: Mindfulness is theorised to improve attention regulation and other cognitive processes. This systematic review examines whether 8-week standardised and manualised mindfulness training programs such as Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) enhances attention, memory and executive function abilities measured by objective neuropsychological tests. Seven databases were searched resulting in 18 studies meeting inclusion criteria for review. Overall studies did not support attention or executive function improvements. We found preliminary evidence for improvements in working memory and autobiographical memory as well as cognitive flexibility and meta-awareness. Short-term mindfulness meditation training did not enhance theorised attentional pathways. Results call into question the theoretical underpinnings of mindfulness, further highlighting the need for a comprehensive theoretical framework.
authors: School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Department of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Australia. Electronic address: So-an.Lao@monash.edu.
authors: So-An
authors: SA
authors: Lao
authors: School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Department of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Australia. Electronic address: David.Kissane@monash.edu.
authors: David
authors: D
authors: Kissane
authors: School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Department of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Australia. Electronic address: Graham.Meadows@monash.edu.
authors: Graham
authors: G
authors: Meadows
mesh_terms: D001288:Attention; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods; D016208:Databases, Factual; D056344:Executive Function; D006801:Humans; D008570:Memory, Short-Term; D000067489:Metacognition; D064866:Mindfulness / Q000379:methods*; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
keywords: Attention; Awareness; Cognitive ability; Cognitive function; Executive function; Memory; Meta-awareness; Mindfulness based cognitive therapy (MBCT); Mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR)