Moye, Amir Josef (2023). Cultural Ripples and Brain Waves: Investigations into Mindfulness, Analytical Meditation, and Culture-Sensitive Research. (Thesis). Universität Bern, Bern
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Abstract
This thesis extensively explores contemplative practices, specifically focusing on analytical meditation (i.e., Tibetan monastic debate) and short-term mindfulness interventions. Surprisingly, Study 1 revealed that short-form mindfulness training did not notably enhance self-control or attention, prompting further investigation into the effectiveness of these interventions. Study 2 explores the impact of monastic debate on absorption (marked by increased frontal theta slopes) and increased inter-brain synchrony during agreement versus disagreement. Study 3 introduces a biobehavioral model, derived from dialogues with Tibetan monastics, suggesting that debate could potentially enhance cognitive control, regulate emotions, and foster social connectivity, integrating these assumptions among empirical findings and confirming predictions of the model through quantitative phenomenological analysis. In a deviation from the initial hypothesis, Study 4 found that Western students surpassed experienced Tibetan monks and novice monks in complex working memory, association memory, and logic tasks. This finding questions the supposed culture-fairness of these testing methods. The discussion delves into the benefits and limitations of secularized short-form mindfulness-based practices, suggesting that their effectiveness hinges on the context of implementation and individual comprehension and application. Further, it is proposed that the potential and challenges of integrating traditional contemplative practices, such as monastic debate, into contemporary psychological research and practice underscore the necessity for a culturally sensitive approach and adaptable methods when researching these practices. This approach additionally emphasizes the importance of collaboration with the practitioners themselves. The thesis concludes by advocating for the preservation and adaptation of Tibetan monastic practices and recognizing the potential benefits of including Tibetan samples in future research on psychological processes. This thesis yields valuable insights into the cognitive impacts of contemplative practices and their potential for psychological transformation and well-being.
| Item Type: | Thesis |
|---|---|
| Dissertation Type: | Cumulative |
| Date of Defense: | 20 December 2023 |
| Subjects: | 100 Philosophy > 150 Psychology |
| Institute / Center: | 07 Faculty of Human Sciences > Institute of Psychology |
| Depositing User: | Hammer Igor |
| Date Deposited: | 09 Sep 2024 12:12 |
| Last Modified: | 17 Sep 2024 03:08 |
| URI: | https://boristheses.unibe.ch/id/eprint/5407 |
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