Bridging the Gap Between Contemporary and Buddhist Definitions of Mindfulness: A Scoping Review

Abstract:

Background: Divergent definitions of mindfulness complicate the interpretation of mindfulness-based intervention research. Some scholars suggest that incorporating insights from historical models of mindfulness in Buddhism may further enhance the benefits of mindfulness practices. Although these recommendations converge on some points, they diverge on others, warranting systematic examination.

Objectives: The present review identifies commonly discussed differences between contemporary and Buddhist conceptualizations and synthesizes them into an integrative model of mindfulness.

Method: A scoping review using database searches identified relevant publications in peer-reviewed journals ranked in the top quartile according to SCImago Journal Rank. Excerpts from 120 articles comparing contemporary and Buddhist conceptualizations of mindfulness were analyzed using inductive content analysis.

Results: Four categories were identified, indicating that the reviewed literature commonly characterizes Buddhist conceptualizations of mindfulness as (a) oriented toward ethical behavior and liberating self-transformation; (b) involving discerning awareness and wise judgment informed by recollection and insight; (c) inseparable from an interconnected system of practices; and (d) involving heedfulness and vigilant guarding of the mind, remembering one’s intentions.

Conclusions: By revisiting and integrating these differences, we propose, as an interpretive synthesis of these contrasts, a process model of mindfulness consisting of four components: (a) sound awareness (non-judgmental awareness), (b) discerning awareness and wise judgment, (c) choice and action guided by wise judgment, and (d) heedfulness. Rather than interpreting contemporary and Buddhist conceptualizations as incompatible, the model incorporates the differences as complementary components within a unified account. Preregistration : This review’s protocol was registered with the Open Science Framework ( https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/4W7DF ).