Identifying adaptations for a mindfulness program for Spanish-speaking mothers of children with chronic conditions or disabilities

A peer-led mindfulness program for Spanish-speaking mothers of children with chronic conditions or disabilities was explored through interviews with sixteen participants. Four contextual factors—faith, self-concept as a woman and mother, trauma, and social support—shaped how mothers experienced the program. Positive practice experiences, self-reflection, and communal sharing led to emotion regulation, savoring daily life, empowerment for self-care, and a sense of common humanity. Faith notably enhanced engagement when integrated with program content. The authors suggest adaptations emphasizing self-reflection and faith integration could benefit similar populations.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Mothers of children with chronic conditions or disabilities have benefited from mindfulness programs, yet culturally relevant mindfulness programs for Spanish-speaking mothers are lacking. We aimed to explore how this population experienced a peer-led mindfulness program to inform adaptations. Sixteen mothers attended a 6-week program and completed semi-structured interviews. Using a realist evaluation framework, we explored relationships between participants' context, the program's mechanisms and outcomes. Our thematic analysis found that four contextual factors-faith, self-concept as a woman and mother, trauma, and level of social support-influenced how participants experienced the mechanisms. Mechanisms included having positive experiences when trying practices, engaging in self-reflection, and sharing life experiences and learning in community. The mechanisms led to four outcomes: emotion regulation, savoring daily life experiences, empowerment to practice self-care and common humanity. Faith was an important enabling factor because participants had positive experiences when integrating their faith with program content. Future research should examine adaptations that invite participants to explore this synergy. Self-reflection should also be emphasized because it increased motivation to use practices and helped address barriers to engagement. Because the four contextual factors apply to many Spanish-speaking immigrants, these adaptations could enhance mindfulness programs for this population more broadly.