A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Effects of Meditation on Empathy, Compassion, and Prosocial Behaviors.
Mindfulness June 1, 2018 Christina M. Luberto, Nina Shinday, Rhayun Song et al.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 randomized controlled trials with 1,714 subjects found that meditation practices produce small to medium improvements in pro-social emotions and behaviors. The effects were similar for self-reported emotions and observed behavioral outcomes, and held even when compared with active control groups. Most studies used compassion or loving-kindness meditation over 8–12 weeks in healthy adults. The findings suggest meditation can enhance empathy, compassion, and helping behavior.