Dispositional and Cultivated Mindfulness: Therapists’ Views and Experiences and the Role and Order of the FFMQ Facets in the Process of Mindfulness Cultivation

Abstract Objectives This study aimed to investigate therapists’ experiences regarding dispositional and cultivated mindfulness. It explores the role and order of the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) skills in the process of mindfulness cultivation, definitions of dispositional and cultivated mindfulness, the specific skills and techniques taught by professionals, and the theoretical order of the mindfulness cultivation process.

Method: Structured interviews were conducted with ten clinical practitioners and therapists from diverse mindfulness backgrounds, including mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectic behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness self-compassion (MSC). Using a preregistered interview guide that focused on definitions, skills, techniques, and the cultivation process of mindfulness, we conducted a rule‑governed content analysis to categorize relevant text passages.

Results: Nine therapists defined dispositional mindfulness according to common literature, while all therapists agreed on the proposed definition of cultivated mindfulness. The therapists highlighted various skills and techniques used in their interventions, with acting with awareness and nonjudgment being prominent. The proposed model of mindfulness cultivation was generally accepted, with minor adjustments suggested. Differences in mindfulness traditions were noted, particularly in the emphasis on self-compassion and acceptance.

Conclusions: Therapists are knowledgeable about dispositional and cultivated mindfulness and integrate these concepts into their interventions. The proposed model of mindfulness cultivation aligns well with practical experiences but requires enrichment with additional components. The study suggests that mindfulness cultivation involves diverse skills and techniques, emphasizing the need for individualized approaches in therapeutic settings. Preregistration This project was preregistered on OSF: https://osf.io/xm84u/overview . Registration https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/U2FZ4