Abstract
Objectives
Extant research suggests that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) support psychosocial well-being in Western, predominantly White populations. However, there is a dearth of research investigating the benefits of MBIs in ethno-racial and culturally diverse samples. A systematic evaluation of how MBIs are culturally adapted is warranted to foster well-being in equity deserving groups.
Methods
This review consolidated the available literature exploring the benefits of culturally adapted group-based MBIs on psychosocial outcomes within persons 18 + years of age from ethno-racial minority populations. Studies were assessed based on cultural adaptations according to eight dimensions: language, persons, metaphors, content, concepts, goals, methods, and context. Following the standards for systematic reviews, a total of ten studies were included.
Results
Findings indicated that culturally adapted MBIs are associated with positive outcomes in depressive symptoms, stress, and anxiety within ethno-racial minority populations. Results were inconsistent regarding improvements in mindfulness. The most common adaptation across studies pertained to content and language (60% of studies for both adaptations), demonstrating efforts to enhance intervention accessibility and align with cultural values, customs, and beliefs. The least commonly employed cultural adaptations involved goals and concepts, indicating a lower likelihood of aligning goal setting with clients’ cultural values and formulating treatment in a contextually relevant manner.
Conclusions
Cultural adaptations can support evidence-based treatment implementation among ethno-racial and culturally diverse populations. However, further research is needed to strengthen and validate these conclusions.
Preregistration
This study was preregistered with PROSPERO, no. CRD42022365796.