The effects of mindfulness meditation on rumination in depressed people

Author

Rachel A. Sluder, University of New Hampshire - Main CampusFollow

Date of Award

Spring 2013

Project Type

Senior Honors Thesis

College or School

COLA

Department

Psychology

Program or Major

Neuroscience and Behavior

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

First Advisor

Brett Gibson

Abstract

Mindfulness meditation is a practice of focus, awareness, and non-judgmental acceptance of one's thoughts (Deyo et al., 2009; Kenny et al., 2007). Rumination is a maladaptive pattern of thought that is common in people with depression and other mood disorders. It can lead to further episodes of depression, and can be very destructive in that way (Nolen-Hoeksema, 2008). This paper reviews several studies on mindfulness meditation, depression, and rumination, with a focus on certain areas and phenomena such as alpha asymmetry (Keune et al 2013) and gamma band activity (Berkovich-Ohana et al., 2012). Modalities such as fMRI and EEG are both used in these studies. Finally, directions for further research are considered, while accepting the challenges unique to this and inherent in any neuroscientific research.

Recommended Citation

Sluder, Rachel A., "The effects of mindfulness meditation on rumination in depressed people" (2013). Honors Theses and Capstones. 144.
https://scholars.unh.edu/honors/144