Knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs towards the therapeutic use of mindfulness amongst psychotherapists in New Zealand : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Psychology at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand
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Date
2016
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Massey University
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Abstract
Mindfulness has infiltrated psychology in the last two decades, and clinical efficacy in
utilising mindfulness is increasing worldwide. Very little research has explored what mental
health professionals know about mindfulness, and their attitudes towards its therapeutic
use. Understanding practitioners’ knowledge and attitudes towards clinical tools is
essential in future integration within therapy. The current study explored knowledge,
attitudes, and beliefs surrounding various aspects of mindfulness among New Zealand
psychotherapists, to identify whether knowledge of mindfulness was related to attitudes
towards its use. A total of 53 psychotherapists completed a questionnaire that elicited
quantitative responses about personal mindfulness, attitudes towards alternative
therapies, and beliefs surrounding perceived competencies with use of mindfulness
clinically. Psychotherapists are in agreement with proposed competencies, have positive
attitudes towards its use, and are personally highly mindful. ANOVA revealed attitudes and
competencies towards the use of mindfulness are related to religious affiliation and
professional specialisation. Most had previous mindfulness education and believed it
benefits their daily life, but suggested they would consider clinical use if their knowledge
was greater. Psychotherapists’ personal mindfulness was not associated with attitudes
towards, or competencies with its use. Despite a number of limitations, possible
implications of the findings suggest future clinical utilisation of mindfulness within New
Zealand, is reliant on understanding its current location within the minds of mental health
professionals. A lack of education about mindfulness may be the reason for low utilisation,
and this research may provide insight into areas of deficiencies. Knowledge in therapeutic
mindfulness is pertinent in the improvement of future utilisation and infiltration within
mental health professions, in turn accomplishing its clinical potential.
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Keywords
Psychotherapists, Mindfulness (Psychology), New Zealand