Examining the Efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Training on Experiential Avoidance and Impulsivity in Female Students with Difficulty in Emotional Regulation

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction training reduced experiential avoidance and impulsivity in female high school students who had difficulty regulating their emotions. Thirty-one students in Tehran were randomly assigned to an experimental or control group; the experimental group completed ten monthly online MBSR sessions of 75 minutes each. Measures included the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire, Barratt Impulsiveness Questionnaire, and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale. Mixed ANOVA showed that MBSR led to less frequent experiential avoidance and impulsivity, with effects maintained at a three-month follow-up. The findings suggest MBSR may benefit students struggling with emotional regulation.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The current study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in mitigating experiential avoidance and impulsivity among female students who encounter difficulties in regulating their emotions. The study utilized a quasi-experimental design comprising a control group, pretest, and posttest, in addition to a three-month follow-up period. The statistical sample comprised female high school pupils residing in Tehran who encountered challenges with emotional regulation throughout the academic year of 2020-2021. A purposively selected sample of thirty-one students was allocated at random to the experimental and control groups. The experimental group engaged in monthly online MBSR sessions for a total of 10 sessions, each lasting 75 minutes. The research employed the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (AAQ), the Barratt Impulsiveness Questionnaire (BIQ), and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS). Data analysis involved Mixed ANOVA and using SPSS software version 23. Female students who struggled with emotional regulation exhibited experiential avoidance and impulsivity less frequently as a result of MBSR (p < 0.001). In conclusion, students who struggle with emotional regulation may benefit from Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction as an intervention strategy, according to the findings. This is supported by the evidence that experiential avoidance and impulsivity can be effectively reduced. This methodology integrates strategies including fostering consciousness regarding the five primary senses, emotions, muscular activity, and the present moment.