Developing an Objective Test of Mindfulness
Institut:
Institut für transkulturelle Gesundheitswissenschaften (IntraG); Stiftungsprofessur Forschungsmethodik der Komplementärmedizin
Projekttitel:
Developing an Objective Test of Mindfulness
Projektleitung:
Ursula Mochty
Projektart: Promotion
BetreuerIn der Promotion: Prof. Dr. Dr. Harald Walach
Finanzierung: Sonstiges
Weitere Geldgeber:
Bial Foundation
Gesamtfördervolumen: 54.000 Euro
Projektbeginn: 01.04.2008
Projektende: 31.12.2011
Projektbeschreibung in englisch:
This project was implemented to follow up results obtained from a previous pilot experiment on the empirical investigation of mindfulness. Currently self-rating questionnaires are in use, but, to date, no objective assessment for mindfulness is available to quantify this construct. Recent studies point towards improvement in attention by means of systematic meditation training. The aim of this project is to overcome some of the weaknesses of self-ratings and develop, implement and evaluate a quick and simple objective test for the assessment of mindfulness and attention. The bi-stable images test presents the Necker Cube illusion, where two different shapes can be perceived in the same image. As mental training of attention is a core ingredient of meditation, it should be possible to influence the amount of image reversals, also so-called "flicker frequency", and indicate improvement/changes in mindfulness and attention. For this purpose experienced meditators, participants in a mindful training and controls are tested.