An evaluation of an eight week mindfulness based stress reduction course, focusing on work-related factors

Abstract

Background Mindfulness is becoming increasingly popular within an organisational context. Research to date has not fully explored the links between work and life balance and how mindfulness can support this. The current research aimed to evaluate if levels of dispositional mindfulness increase after participating in a Mindfulness based stress reduction course (MBSR). The study explored the effects of mindfulness on work-related outcomes. Methods A mixed methods design was used; a self-report Mindfulness attention awareness scale (MAAS) was administered to participants at baseline and post course to assess levels of dispositional mindfulness. A paired t test analyses was then carried out on SPSS, allowing a comparison of pre and post course scores. After attending an eight week MBSR seven participants took part in semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data. Findings Positive differences in a work and study context, personal life and health were revealed. The paired t-test revealed that there was a significant increase in mindfulness scores from baseline to post course (t(5) = -3.06, p= 0.028). Interviews were transcribed and thematic analysis of the interviews then revealed three main themes; a) Pre and post course difference, b) Noticing and accepting and c) Practice. Discussion The findings contribute to the practical implications for mindfulness and the improvement of work-related stress. Implementing MBSR courses in a work environment may enable individuals to benefit in a work context and a personal and health perspective. Further research needs to explicitly measure work-life balance outcomes on a larger scale.