Loving‐Kindness Meditation Effects on Well‐Being and Altruism: A Mixed‐Methods Online RCT. Issue 3 (23rd June 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Galante, Julieta; Bekkers, Marie‐Jet; Mitchell, Clive; Gallacher, John
• Is Part Of: Applied psychology. Volume 8:Issue 3(2016:Nov.)
• Page Start: 322
• Page End: 350
• Publication Date: 2016-06-23
• Subjects: Internet -- loving‐kindness meditation -- mixed methods -- physical exercise -- randomised controlled trial -- well‐being; Psychology, Applied -- Periodicals; Well-being -- Periodicals; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; Health -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Psychology, Applied -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; Psychologie appliquée -- Périodiques; Bien-être -- Périodiques; 616.0019
• DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12074
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-0846

Abstract

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.