A Literature Review on Vipassana Meditation: Psychological Treatment and Social Benefits for Harmonizing the Inner Self and Society
Feri Sulianta
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review |
|---|---|
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | Argues that Vipassana meditation enhances psychological well-being by improving emotional regulation and reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and that its ethical principles foster social harmony and community cohesion. |
Abstract
This literature review examines Vipassana meditation as a multifaceted practice with significant psychological and social benefits. Rooted in ancient Indian traditions and revived in the 20th century by S.N. Goenka, Vipassana meditation focuses on self-observation and mindfulness to cultivate deep self-awareness and ethical living. This review synthesizes historical, empirical, and theoretical perspectives to explore the practice's effectiveness in enhancing psychological well-being and fostering social harmony. Empirical research highlights that Vipassana meditation promotes emotional regulation, reduces stress, and improves mental health outcomes such as anxiety and depression. Its impact on emotional intelligence and empathy contributes to more harmonious interpersonal relationships and reduced social conflict. The ethical principles underlying Vipassana, including non-violence and compassion, enhance community cohesion and ethical behavior, aligning with contemporary needs for social justice and environmental sustainability The review integrates findings on how inner peace achieved through Vipassana meditation extends to broader societal benefits, addressing both personal and collective challenges. The holistic approach of Vipassana, which combines psychological insights with ethical living, offers a comprehensive framework for promoting well-being in today's fast-paced and fragmented world. Future research should further investigate the mechanisms through which Vipassana influences both individual and social dynamics and explore its potential for broader application in mental health and social programs.
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 |
Citations in the library
Cited by 2
- Detached self-observation as a developmental catalyst: theoretical insights from dynamical systems thinking, cultural mediation, and contemplative practice. Frontiers in Psychology October 2, 2025
- An Observational Study to Assess the Reflection of Vipassana Meditation (VM) on the Perception of "Mindfulness" as a Tool for Health Promotion Among Beneficiaries of VM. Cureus August 12, 2025