Psychometric Assessment of the Applied Mindfulness Process Scale (AMPS) Among a Sample of Women in Treatment for Substance Use Disorder

Abstract Objectives The Applied Mindfulness Process Scale (AMPS) is a measure used to quantify the level at which individuals apply learned mindfulness skills during and after a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI). The AMPS was previously developed and validated among individuals with mindfulness experience and in good health. The utility of the AMPS among individuals receiving an MBI for a clinical disorder has not been examined.

Method: We tested the reliability, nomological validity, and incremental validity of the AMPS in a sample of women with substance use disorder (SUD) engaged in an MBI (n=100).

Results: AMPS and its subscales displayed adequate internal consistency reliability (Cronbach’s alpha range = 0.80–0.97) at each assessment, and test-retest reliability correlations were small to moderate in magnitude (Spearman’s ρ range = 0.22–0.74). AMPS scores averaged across assessments correlated with conceptually related measures in the expected directions at post-intervention (Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, (FFMQ,) r = 0.44, p < 0.01; Perceived Stress Scale, PSS, (PSS) r = −0.30, p < 0.01; Difficulties with Emotion Regulation Scale, (DERS,) r = −0.48, p < 0.01). AMPS explained variance in DERS beyond conventional mindfulness measures (MBI class attendance, mindfulness practice effort, FFMQ) at post-intervention (β = −0.32, p < 0.05).

Conclusions: The AMPS broadens the ability to capture behavioral aspects associated with therapeutic change that are distinct from conventional measures of practice quantity and mindfulness disposition. The measure yields predictive value for emotion dysregulation, a common target of MBIs. Factor analytic work is needed in clinical, novice meditator samples. Preregistration This study was not preregistered.