History and theoretical framework of MBCT
Barry Tse, Melody Jia-Qi Xu
PsyArXiv October 24, 2025 preprint DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/2v3hx_v2 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review |
|---|---|
| Interventions | Mindfulness for Life Mindful Mood Balance |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | The authors present MBCT as an effective intervention for preventing depressive relapse and addressing a range of psychological conditions, supported by empirical evidence they summarize, while also noting critical inquiries into its efficacy. They argue that MBCT works by changing individuals' relationship with their thoughts rather than altering thought content, and they identify instructor competence and adherence to mindfulness practice as ongoing implementation challenges requiring continued research and methodological innovation. |
Abstract
MBCT combines ancient mindfulness practices with the structured approaches of modern CBT, creating an effective intervention for preventing depressive relapse and addressing a wide range of psychological conditions. The authors explore MBCT's development from its Eastern spiritual origins to its validation in Western clinical contexts. They discuss the dual theoretical frameworks underpinning MBCT, highlighting how it shifts the individual’s relationship with thoughts instead of altering thought content. A summary of key empirical evidence supporting MBCT’s effectiveness is provided while noting critical inquiries into its efficacy. The evolution of MBCT into programmes like Mindfulness for Life and Mindful Mood Balance is discussed. Furthermore, challenges such as ensuring instructor competence and boosting adherence to mindfulness practices are noted, illustrating the need for continuous research and methodological innovation in its implementation.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on meditation, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mindfulness training as a clinical intervention: A conceptual and empirical review. Clinical populations | 2003 | Review | |
| Mindfulness: Theoretical Foundations and Evidence for its Salutary Effects | 2007 | Review | |
| Mindfulness Interventions | 2016 | Review | |
| Mind the Hype: A Critical Evaluation and Prescriptive Agenda for Research on Mindfulness and Meditation | 2017 | Review | |
| Mindfulness and acceptance: expanding the cognitive-behavioral tradition | 2005 | Review |