Date of Award

Spring 2014

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Major

Psychology

First Advisor

Randolph Lee

Abstract

Society today puts extreme pressure on individuals to take on a magnitude of daily responsibilities in order to be successful. We are pushed beyond our limits both mentally and physically, which results in heightened state and trait anxiety. Adopting the theory of mindfulness teaches us to live in the present moment and not criticize our thoughts (Bormann et. al, 2013). The current study tests the effects of daily mindfulness meditation on state and trait anxiety as measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Participants were Trinity College students that engaged in formal meditation sessions twice a week, but maintained the practice on their own every day. Students completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory before the first session began and after their sixth session. The inventory was also given before and after the fourth session. Based on past research, it was hypothesized that the participants that engaged in daily mindfulness meditation for six weeks would have a reduction in trait anxiety when compared to the control group. It was also hypothesized that the participants would see a reduction in state anxiety when measured before and after the meditation session. If mindfulness meditation is proved to be a significant reduction method for state and trait anxiety, this easy to learn lifestyle can be an effective alternative to medication.

Comments

Senior thesis completed at Trinity College for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

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