When East meets West: A randomized controlled trial and pre- to postprogram evaluation replication of the effects of insight-based mindfulness on psychological well-being

Mindfulness training has been incorporated into a variety of Western psychological therapies. However, Western psychological applications of mindfulness typically have not included 2 aspects of mindfulness central to traditional Buddhist teachings from which mindfulness is derived: first, that mindfulness is used to develop insights, and second that mindfulness enhances positive well-being, rather than just reducing psychological distress. Two studies evaluated the effects on positive well-being of the Insight-Based Mindfulness Program (IBMP), which extends the well-established Western mindfulness programs to incorporate the development of insight. In a randomized controlled trial with n = 141 Thai participants, and in an uncontrolled trial with n = 96 Australian participants, IBMP improved well-being and mindfulness, developed key insights, and reduced psychological distress. A multilevel model of trajectory of change across the course of IBMP through to a 6-week follow-up showed most change was evident in the first half of IBMP, with gains being maintained through to follow-up. Effects were very similar for Thai and Australian participants, showing the program has cross-cultural applicability.