Loving-kindness meditation effects on well-being and altruism: a mixed-methods online RCT

Galante, Julieta, Bekkers, Marie-Jet, Mitchell, Clive Peter and Gallacher, John Edward 2016. Loving-kindness meditation effects on well-being and altruism: a mixed-methods online RCT. Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being 8 (3) , pp. 322-350. 10.1111/aphw.12074

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Abstract

BACKGROUND: Evidence suggests that facilitating empathy could improve individuals' well-being. Loving-kindness meditation (LKM) could be a facilitator, and online delivery a cost-effective format. METHODS: We conducted an internet-based randomised controlled trial recruiting 809 adults to test whether an LKM course improves well-being through evoking pleasant emotions, psychological resources, and altruism compared to a light physical exercise course (LE). Participants in both arms followed video-based instructions, completed post-intervention questionnaires, and used online diaries and forums. To measure altruism £10/$10 were offered to participants with a choice of donating all/half to charity. Thematic analysis was applied to diary/forum entries. RESULTS: Both courses increased well-being without significant differences. LKM participants were less anxious than LE participants (ß = -0.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) [-0.43, -0.02], p = .03), and more likely to donate £5/$5 (Relative Risk = 3.57, 95%CI [0.82, 15.50], p = .09). Attrition was high (82%). Participants engaged in diary/forum usage. LKM was an emotionally intense experience, generating deep reflections and increased connectedness but difficult for some to process. LE led to gentle increases in relaxation, generating a sense of achievement. CONCLUSIONS: Future research needs to confirm findings and devise ways of delivering online LKM effectively to diverse populations.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Medicine
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Internet; loving-kindness meditation; mixed methods; physical exercise; randomised controlled trial; well-being.
Publisher:	Pub Med
ISSN:	1758-0846
Funders:	Cardiff University School of Medicine
Last Modified:	11 Oct 2017 00:55
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/103276

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