Examining process vs. Outcome-based approaches to measuring mindfulness: A review of the literature

The aim of this review is to examine existing outcome and process-based mindfulness measures and determine the degree to which these measures reflect the original Buddhist definition of mindfulness. Mindfulness-based interventions have become increasingly common, and have shown evidence of reducing psychopathology and increasing psychological wellbeing. Existing mindfulness measures do not reflect one operational definition of mindfulness, but instead reflect a number of varying definitions. Nine mindfulness measures were reviewed including their development and psychometric properties. Current mindfulness measures were found to be psychometrically sound, and to reflect varying definitions of mindfulness. A new process-based scale was reviewed and most accurately reflects the original Buddhist definition of mindfulness