The relation of mindfulness and prosocial behavior: What do we (not) know?

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Simon Schindler - , Chair of Social Psychology, TUD Dresden University of Technology (Author)
  • Malte Friese - , Saarland University (Author)

Abstract

Mindfulness is a hot topic in psychological research and the popular media. One central claim in the literature is that enhanced mindfulness fosters prosocial behavior. This article recapitulates what is currently known about this widespread claim. We first review theoretical perspectives on why enhanced mindfulness should foster prosocial behavior and discuss relevant empirical evidence. Two meta-analyses provide preliminary support for this claim. However, limitations call for caution when interpreting the evidence and studies investigating effects that persist over sustained periods of time are missing. In addition, theoretical assumptions about the underlying mechanisms need stronger empirical support. We discuss theoretical predicaments, identify potential downsides of mindfulness, and suggest ways forward for future research.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)151-156
Number of pages6
JournalCurrent Opinion in Psychology
Volume44
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2022
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

PubMed 34662774

Keywords

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Keywords

  • Empathic concern, Mindfulness, Motivation, Prosocial behavior, Self-regulation