The Importance of Self-Reflection and Awareness for Human Development in Hard Times
M. Ardelt, S. Grunwald
Research in Human Development July 10, 2018 DOI: 10.1080/15427609.2018.1489098 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Education |
| Key points | Argues that self-reflection and self-awareness are central to healing from trauma and psychosomatic wounds, and that mindfulness practices—Buddhist and Westernized—offer potential for raising self-awareness and resilience, though McMindfulness is critiqued. |
Abstract
Trauma is an inescapable part of being human, whether caused by external events or internal struggles. Self-reflection and self-awareness aid in the recovery from external trauma and heal psychosomatic wounds. We first explain different understandings of the nature of the self and mechanisms of self-reflection and self-awareness. Then we describe the role of self-reflection and awareness in ontogenetic, sociogenic, liberative, transpersonal, and spiritual models of adult development. Finally, we discuss the practice of Buddhist mindfulness, Westernized forms of mindfulness, and McMindfulness and their potential for raising the level of self-awareness, increase resilience during hard times, and heal from trauma.
Citations in the library
Cited by 4
- The Effects of an Online Yoga Nidra Meditation on Subjective Well-Being and Diurnal Salivary Cortisol: A Randomised Controlled Trial. Stress and Health June 1, 2025
- Elusive Notions of Bodhisattvas: Personified, Idealized, Mystified, Naturalized, and Integral Religions June 13, 2025
- Should I Share: Patients’ Reflections on Disclosing Past Life Memories in Psychotherapy Religions June 5, 2025
- Antecedents and Consequences of Grit Among Working Adults: A Transpersonal Psychology Perspective. Frontiers in Psychology 2022
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