Two cross-sectional studies examined the relationship between Buddhist-derived mindfulness and Stoic attitudes. In Study 1, 1,781 New Zealand undergraduates completed measures of mindfulness and Stoic attitudes. Study 2 replicated the analysis in 287 Australian adults using a different mindfulness measure. Network analysis identified Stoic Mindfulness as the primary bridge connecting the two traditions, showing strongest links with Non-Reactivity (Study 1) and Insightful Understanding (Study 2). However, Non-Reactivity was negatively associated with Stoic Ethical Development/Compassion, and Beliefs about Control consistently showed negative associations with mindfulness facets. Findings suggest that while Stoic Mindfulness bridges the traditions, certain mindfulness approaches may reduce pro-social motivation, highlighting potential benefits of integrating Stoic ethical frameworks.
Nonordinary experiences (NOEs) such as déjà vu, intense compassion, and out-of-body sensations are common in the general population, but how researchers ask about them greatly affects reported prevalence. A mental health framing and yes/no response options both lower prevalence rates, while item clarity raises them. Across six studies totaling over 37,000 participants, déjà vu and unusually intense experiences of compassion and love were most prevalent (over 70%), while perceptions of animated objects, devotion to objects or individuals, out-of-body experiences, and seeing lights were rarer (over 13%). Despite framing and response-format effects, relative lifetime prevalence can be estimated consistently. The findings provide a validated tool for systematically identifying these experiences to study consciousness in real-world contexts.
A new feature-based, subject-centered approach to measuring mediumship and possession-like experiences was developed and validated in Brazil, where such traditions are rich. Ten key phenomenological features were identified through a multi-step process involving systematic review, input from practitioners and religious leaders, and validation in a Brazilian population sample. Some of these experiences were reported by more than 60% of participants, indicating high prevalence. The findings underscore the value of culturally sensitive, feature-based instruments for studying non-ordinary experiences across cultures and provide recommendations for future research on their phenomenology and cultural interpretations.