Mindfulness Buffers the Effect of Inauthenticity on Depression
Anja Roemer, Anna Sutton, Oleg N. Medvedev
Psychological Reports August 1, 2022 DOI: 10.1177/00332941211012941 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Cross-sectional survey Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 301 |
| Population | Employed individuals in New Zealand |
| Topics | Depression Meditation |
| Key findings | Authenticity and mindfulness together explained 29% of the variance in depression, and mindfulness buffered the negative impact of low authenticity on depression. The authors conclude that inauthenticity is related to higher depression but that mindfulness may protect mental health when authenticity is reduced. |
Abstract
Objectives: Pressures in daily life limit one’s ability to be authentic and research shows that inauthenticity can be detrimental to mental health. Mindfulness is known to have a protective effect on mental health through an accepting and nonjudgmental stance. This study aimed to establish whether mindfulness buffers the relationship between inauthenticity and depression.
Method: A cross-sectional sample of employed individuals in New Zealand ( n=301) completed an online survey assessing their levels of authenticity, mindfulness, and depression.
Results: Findings indicate that authenticity and mindfulness together explain 29% of variance in depression. In addition, mindfulness can buffer the negative impact of low authenticity on depression.
Conclusion: Inauthenticity is related to higher levels of depression, but mindfulness is able to buffer this impact. These findings imply that engaging in mindfulness practice may be beneficial for mental health when individuals experience reduced authenticity.
Comparable studies
Other cross-sectional and survey studies on depression, most cited first.
Citations in the library
Cites 4
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- Construct Validity of the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire in Meditating and Nonmeditating Samples Assessment February 29, 2008
- How long does a mindfulness‐based stress reduction program need to be? A review of class contact hours and effect sizes for psychological distress Journal of Clinical Psychology March 23, 2009