City Research Online

Abstract

Research exploring contemplative practices and their therapeutic applications has accelerated. Early clinical use included mindfulness- based stress recovery (MBSR), in which mindfulness meditation was concurrent with psychoeducation. Second- generation mindfulness-based interventions (SG- MBIs) have also demonstrated promise. They, however, extend on the earlier generations (e.g. MBSR) by including practices which facilitate the experiential deconstruction of the self, and insight into Buddhist conceptions of ‘emptiness’. These techniques are associated with long- term meditation (LTM) and despite their possible psychological benefits, may be destabilizing. Given the increasing interest in the clinical potential of methods pertinent to LTM and the scarcity of qualitative research exploring advanced meditators the current study further explored their lived- experiences. An ancillary aim was to clarify the reported mechanisms of action, outcomes and methods through which practitioners navigated difficulty.

Ten long- term meditators were recruited for participation across several Buddhist, Yogic and secular backgrounds. Semi- structured interviews were conducted. These were then transcribed and analysed using Interpretative- Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The analysis yielded two overarching themes. These were ‘Paths of Transformation’ and ‘Staying the Path; Methods of Containment and Collaboration’. Several sub- themes (group experiential themes) are also illustrated.

The results of the analytic process are then considered in relation to the wider meditative literature. Relevant theoretical constructs are discussed to further illuminate participant accounts. After, the clinical implications of the findings are elaborated.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Departments:	School of Health & Medical Sciences > Psychology School of Health & Medical Sciences > School of Health & Medical Sciences Doctoral Theses Doctoral Theses

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