Mindfulness training as a clinical intervention: A conceptual and empirical review.

Abstract

Interventions based on training in mindfulness skills are becoming increasingly popular. Mindfulness involves intentionally bringing one’s attention to the internal and external experiences occurring in the present moment, and is often taught through a variety of meditation exercises. This review summarizes conceptual approaches to mindfulness and empirical research on the utility of mindfulnessbased interventions. Meta-analytic techniques were incorporated to facilitate quantification of findings and comparison across studies. Although the current empirical literature includes many methodological flaws, findings suggest that mindfulness-based interventions may be helpful in the treatment of several disorders. Methodologically sound investigations are recommended in order to clarify the utility of these interventions.

In the evidence

This study is part of the evidence base for a synthesis in the library. Here is how each one recorded it.

• State of the evidence: Meditation ↑Supports

  Mindfulness-based interventions may be helpful in treating several disorders, though the empirical literature has many methodological flaws.

  Synthesized October 19, 2026

Comparable studies

Other narrative reviews on meditation, most cited first.