The Standardized Open-source Mindfulness Architecture (SOMA): A Modular, Equity-Engineered Stimulus Library for Mechanistic Mindfulness Research
PsyArXiv May 18, 2026 preprint DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/cp67b_v1 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Randomized controlled trial Preregistered |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 360 |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Registration | NCT07556744 |
| Key findings | The SOMA stimulus library was validated in a pre-registered randomized controlled trial (N = 360), which supported the predicted double dissociation between condition and measure (F(1, 358) = 185.95) and indicated comparable outcomes across socioeconomic strata (Hedges' g = -0.07, within the ±0.40 equivalence bound). A small credibility gap favoring the mindfulness condition remained. |
Abstract
Mindfulness research faces two recurring methodological problems: near-universal reliance on weak control conditions that cannot isolate specific mechanisms from expectancy effects, and systematic exclusion of low-socioeconomic status (SES) populations through design assumptions that presuppose high literacy, quiet private spaces, and contemplative familiarity. We present the Standardized Open-source Mindfulness Architecture (SOMA), a modular stimulus library designed to address both challenges. SOMA comprises 88 audio/script assets: 32 pre-specified Mindfulness–Active Control session pairs across 16 practice modules, written at Grade 5–6 reading level and designed for noisy, shared environments. A pre-registered validation randomised controlled trial (RCT; N = 360; ClinicalTrials.gov NCT07556744) provides proof-of-concept. The data supported the predicted double dissociation (Condition × Measure: F(1, 358) = 185.95, p = 2.2 × 10−34, BF10 ≈ 9.5 × 1063) and experiential equity across SES strata (Hedges' g = −0.07; TOST-confirmed within ±0.40), yet a small credibility gap remained, favouring the Mindfulness condition.
Comparable studies
Other randomized controlled trials on meditation, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alterations in Brain and Immune Function Produced by Mindfulness Meditation Healthy employees in a work environment | 2003 | Randomized controlled trial | n = 41 |
| Prevention of relapse/recurrence in major depression by mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. Recovered recurrently depressed patients | 2000 | Randomized controlled trial | n = 145 |
| Open hearts build lives: Positive emotions, induced through loving-kindness meditation, build consequential personal resources. Working adults | 2008 | Randomized controlled trial | n = 139 |
| Short-term meditation training improves attention and self-regulation Undergraduate Chinese students | 2007 | Randomized controlled trial | n = 40 |
| Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Depression: Replication and Exploration of Differential Relapse Prevention Effects. Recovered recurrently depressed patients | 2004 | Randomized controlled trial | n = 73 |