Abstract
The purpose of this proposed research was to investigate the moderating effects ofpersonality on cognitive outcomes related to a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. Specifically, we randomized UMass Dartmouth student participants to receive either a 7-week MBSR group-based intervention or to a control group. All participants completed baseline and follow-up measures of personality traits, a behavioral measure of attention (the Stroop task), as well as neurological markers of attention (via Event-Related Potential methodology). Based on previous research, we expected to find that individuals in the MBSR intervention groups would show significant improvements on measures of attention when compared to controls, shown by improved reaction time and accuracy on the Stroop task, significantly increased amplitude of the N200 ERP, and significantly decreased amplitude of the P300 ERP when compared to controls. Based on previous work showing that individuals with greater behavioral deficits show the largest change in mindfulness benefits, we also expected high neuroticism to have a significant moderating effect on the behavioral and neural markers of attention. This relationship was predicted to be such that individuals high in neuroticism would see the biggest gains in attention related outcomes. The study experienced difficulties with participant retention at follow-up, and a moderation analysis was not able to be completed. Results suggest that participants in the mindfulness group showed improved behavioral and emotional outcomes compared to controls, though these results should be interpreted with caution. Directions for future research on these relationships are provided.