Adaptation of a mindfulness-based intervention for incarcerated young men: a feasibility study

Simpson, S., Wyke, S. and Mercer, S. W. (2019) Adaptation of a mindfulness-based intervention for incarcerated young men: a feasibility study. Mindfulness, 10(8), pp. 1568-1578. (doi: 10.1007/s12671-018-1076-z)

Abstract

Objectives: Incarcerated young men commonly experience problems with impulsivity and emotional dysregulation. Mindfulness training could help but the evidence is limited. This study developed and piloted an adapted mindfulness-based intervention for this group (n = 48). Methods: Feasibility of recruitment, retention, and data collection were assessed, and the effectiveness of mindfulness training measured using validated questionnaires. Twenty-five qualitative interviews were conducted to explore experiences of the course, and barriers and facilitators to taking part. Results: The findings indicated that recruitment and retention to mindfulness training groups was a challenge despite trying various adaptive strategies to improve interest, relevance, and acceptability. Quantitative data collection was feasible at baseline and post-course. There were significant improvements following training in impulsivity (effect size [ES] 0.72, 95% CI 0.32–1.11, p = 0.001), mental wellbeing (ES 0.50; 95% CI 0.18–0.80; p = 0.003), inner resilience (comprehensibility ES 0.35; 95% CI − 0.02–0.68; p = 0.03), and mindfulness (ES 0.32; 95% CI 0.03–0.60; p = 0.03). The majority (70%) of participants reported finding the course uncomfortable or disconcerting at first but if they chose to remain, this changed as they began to experience benefit. The body scan and breathing techniques were reported as being most helpful. Positive experiences included better sleep, less stress, feeling more in control, and improved relationships. Conclusions: Developing and delivering mindfulness training for incarcerated young men is feasible and may be beneficial, but recruitment and retention may limit reach. Further studies are required that include a control group.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This study received funding from the Scottish Government Criminal Justice Department.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Wyke, Professor Sally and Mercer, Professor Stewart and Simpson, Mrs Sharon
• Authors: Simpson, S., Wyke, S., and Mercer, S. W.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > General Practice and Primary Care; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Social Scientists working in Health and Wellbeing; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing
• Journal Name: Mindfulness
• Publisher: Springer
• ISSN: 1868-8527
• ISSN (Online): 1868-8535
• Published Online: 21 February 2019
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2019 The Authors
• First Published: First published in Mindfulness 10(8): 1568-1578
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License