A Network Modeling Approach to Mindfulness Mechanisms: a Proof-of-Concept Investigation

In contrast to theory, most extant research has not investigated mindfulness mechanisms as dynamic system(s) of processes nor via measurement with high temporal and contextual resolution in participants’ real-world environment.

Accordingly, as an initial proof of concept approach, we applied a network analysis methodology to experience sampling data twice daily of 10 risk and protective processes of interest, pre- and post-mindfulness training (3-week, 6-session intervention) among 82 meditation-naive adults.

First, we found changes in the network post-relative to pre-intervention, including the emergence or strengthening of key network pathways (e.g., willingness, positive affect) as well as the pruning or weakening of pathways (e.g., negative affect, depressed/anxious mood). Second, relatedly, we found that negative affect was less functionally central at post- versus pre-intervention.

Findings suggest theoretically and clinically important changes in the functional connectivity of a network of mindfulness mechanisms and related processes following a mindfulness intervention. This proof of concept study and its findings are discussed with respect to the emerging study of mindfulness mechanisms as a dynamic system or network.