Mindfulness in face recognition: Embedding mindfulness instructions in the face‐composite construction process
Kyriaki Giannou, Charlie D. Frowd, Jason R. Taylor, Karen Lander
Applied Cognitive Psychology April 4, 2021 DOI: 10.1002/acp.3829 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Randomized controlled trial Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 20 |
| Population | Participants who were not football fans (composite constructors); naming assessed by 24 football fans |
| Duration | 24-hour delay between memorization and composite construction |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Citations | 8 |
| Key findings | Embedding mindfulness instructions in the EvoFIT facial composite system led to significantly higher correct naming of composites compared with standard EvoFIT. The authors indicate this suggests potential for non-meditative mindfulness instructions to assist face-composite construction and improve identification of ensuing composites. |
Abstract
Summary Meditative mindfulness practices, promoting sustained attention and reducing mind‐wandering, have been associated with improvements in cognitive abilities and memory. The present study explored whether a non‐meditative practice could be successfully applied in a forensic application; specifically, whether mindfulness instructions can be embedded in the face‐composite construction process to facilitate identification. Twenty participants, who were not football fans, were asked to memorise an unfamiliar footballer's face and return 24 hr later to construct a face using the self‐administered EvoFIT facial composite system. In the experimental condition, mindfulness instructions were embedded in the EvoFIT system, encouraging witnesses to focus on the target face and the process; in the control condition, participants constructed the face using the standard EvoFIT system. Naming of the composites was attempted by 24 football fans, who each viewed 10 composites, five from each condition, and then the target footballer images to ensure they were familiar with the identities. Results showed significantly higher levels of correct naming for composites constructed using EvoFIT with mindfulness instructions compared to using the standard EvoFIT. These findings indicate the potential for non‐meditative mindfulness instructions to assist face‐composite construction, improving correct naming of ensuing composites.
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 |
Citations in the library
Cited by 3
- Attentional Features of Mindfulness are Better Predictors of Face Recognition than Empathy and Compassion-Based Constructs Psychological Reports February 3, 2022
- Mindfulness-Based Intervention Effects on EEG and Executive Functions: A Systematic Review. Brain Sciences March 20, 2025
- Meditative and non-meditative mindfulness-based interventions for mind and body. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies July 15, 2023
Cites 21
- The benefits of being present: Mindfulness and its role in psychological well-being. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 2003
- Using Self-Report Assessment Methods to Explore Facets of Mindfulness Assessment January 27, 2006
- Mindfulness: A proposed operational definition. Clinical Psychology Science and Practice 2004
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Stress Management in Healthy People: A Review and Meta-Analysis The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine May 1, 2009
- Short-term meditation training improves attention and self-regulation Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences October 11, 2007
and 16 more in the library