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. 2019 Feb:34:132-138.
doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2018.11.013. Epub 2018 Nov 27.

Recommendations for a culturally-responsive mindfulness-based intervention for African Americans

Natalie N Watson-Singleton  1 , Angela R Black  2 , Briana N Spivey  3
Affiliations

Recommendations for a culturally-responsive mindfulness-based intervention for African Americans

Natalie N Watson-Singleton et al. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2019 Feb.

Abstract

Background: African Americans are at increased risk for stress-related disparities. Mindfulness-based interventions are effective in reducing adverse outcomes; yet, racial/ethnic minorities are underrepresented in these interventions. Also, the development of culturally-responsive interventions has been mostly non-existent.

Materials and methods: Focus group and interview data were acquired following a four-week mindfulness intervention with African American women.

Results: Using Brigg's (2011) mental health utilization model to guide analysis, several recommended culturally-responsive modifications emerged. Recommended modifications internal to the intervention included using African American facilitators, incorporating cultural values, using culturally-familiar terminology, and providing cultural resources. Suggested modifications to the intervention's external factors included offering the intervention within culturally-familiar settings. Individual-level factors to address were religious concerns, perceived benefits, and holistic health goals.

Conclusions: Themes were used to propose a model toward the creation of a culturally-responsive mindfulness-based interventions to guide culturally-relevant treatment modifications and improve underserved communities' engagement in these interventions.

Keywords: African Americans; Culture; Health disparities; Mindfulness.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.. Proposed Culturally Responsive Mindfulness-Based Intervention Model
Note. * Represents specific factors that emerged in the qualitative thematic analyses.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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