Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in Adolescents
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Authors
Zabolotniuk, Brittany
Issue Date
2022-12
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
MBSR , mindfulness-based strategies , adolescent mental health , child mental health
Alternative Title
Abstract
The prevalence of mental health disorders among adolescents has increased, and there is a need to explore emotional-regulation strategies for that age group. Given the amount of time that adolescents spend in school, it is important to explore ways to support their mental health in the school setting. The research question for this capstone project was, "How do mindfulness-based strategies enhance emotional regulation in adolescents?" The aim of the literature review was to gain insights into whether mindfulness strategies can assist adolescents in managing their mental health and overall well-being. Mindfulness helps with emotional dysregulation by attuning thoughts and emotions with the present moment. With the increasing phenomenon of mindfulness, it is important to incorporate mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) not only for adults, but also for adolescents. This points to the need for the literature review to explore mindfulness-based stress-reduction strategies in adolescents. The main techniques of MBSR include breathing strategies, mindful eating, and yoga. The major findings support the importance of the continuous practice of MBSR strategies to benefit from the approach. Despite the idea that MBSR was originally designed to reduce chronic pain and stress; studies have shown that MBSR also helps to reduce anxiety, depression, and fear. In conclusion, it is beneficial for future practitioners to understand whether mindfulness in self-care is useful as a strategy to support adolescents' mental health.