Thomas Dunn | Bishop Grosseteste University (original) (raw)

Mindfulness & Complimentary Therapies by Thomas Dunn

Research paper thumbnail of Shonin, E., Van Gordon, W., Dunn, T., Singh, N., & Griffiths, M. D. (2014). Meditation Awareness Training for work-related wellbeing and job performance: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, DOI 10.1007/s11469-014-9513-2

Shonin, E., Van Gordon, W., Dunn, T., Singh, N., & Griffiths, M. D. (2014). Meditation Awareness Training for work-related wellbeing and job performance: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, DOI 10.1007/s11469-014-9513-2

International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 2014

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Research paper thumbnail of Meditation-Induced Near-Death Experiences: a 3-Year Longitudinal Study

Mindfulness

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Research paper thumbnail of Effects of a regional school-based mindfulness programme on students’ levels of Wellbeing and resiliency

International Journal of Spa and Wellness

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Research paper thumbnail of Animal-Assisted Interventions for school-aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a meta-analysis

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2021

Research has indicated beneficial effects of Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs) for children wi... more Research has indicated beneficial effects of Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs) for children with Autism. However, there is a dearth of meta-analyses and the findings are often contradictory. The current meta-analysis assesses the effectiveness of AAIs on social interaction, communication and global Autism symptoms. A total of 1447 studies were returned, of which 16 (n = 489) met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analyses indicated small effect sizes related to improvements in social interaction and communication and reduction in ASD symptoms. Additionally, there was little evidence for a relationship between dosage and effect size. In conclusion, AAIs appear to offer small improvements in social interaction and communication for children with Autism, which may be comparable to activities used in active control conditions.

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Research paper thumbnail of The effect of mindfulness-based interventions on immunity-related biomarkers: a comprehensive meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Clinical Psychology Review, 2022

One proposed pathway that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) may offer a salutogenic effect o... more One proposed pathway that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) may offer a salutogenic effect on somatic disorders is by enhancing immune function. As such, we conducted a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials examining the effect of MBIs at post-intervention and follow-up for six immune-related biomarkers, including CD4+ cells, C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, nuclear factor-κB, telomere length, and telomerase activity. Potential studies were identified by searching ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Academic Search Complete, AMED, MEDLINE, PsycARTICLES, and PsycINFO. Searches returned 1959 studies, of which 48 (70 effects) were included (N = 4683). Pooled effect sizes indicated a reduction in C-reactive protein (SMCD = -.14, 95% CI [-.26 – -.01]) and interleukin-6 (SMCD = -.35, 95% CI [-.67 – -.03]), and an increase in CD4+ (SMCD = .09, 95% CI [-.05 – .22]), telomere length (SMCD = .12, 95% CI [.00 – .24]) and telomerase activity (SMCD = .81, 95% CI [.17 –
1.46]) at post-intervention. At follow-up, results showed a reduction in interleukin-6 (SMCD = -.13, 95% CI [-.29 – .03]) and C-reactive protein (SMCD = -.39, 95% CI [-.68 – -.10]) and increase in CD4+ (SMCD = .22, 95% CI [-.08 – .52]). Meta-regression results showed that some heterogeneity in effect size could be accounted for by intervention dosage, study population, and study design. Our findings quantify MBIs’ potential for improving immune function and thus impacting somatic disorders.

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Research paper thumbnail of Exploring Emptiness and its Effects on Non-Attachment, Mystical Experiences, and Psycho-spiritual Wellbeing: A Quantitative and Qualitative Study of Advanced Meditators

Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T. J., Sapthiang, S., Kotera, Y., Garcia-Campayo, J., Sheffield... more Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T. J., Sapthiang, S., Kotera, Y., Garcia-Campayo, J., Sheffield, D. (2018). Exploring emptiness and its effects on non-attachment, mystical experiences, and psychospiritual wellbeing: a quantitative and qualitative study of advanced meditators. Explore: the journal of science and healing (In Press).

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Research paper thumbnail of Meditation-induced near-death experiences: A three-year prospective study.

Mindfulness, 2018

Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Sheffield, D., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2018... more Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Sheffield, D., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2018). Meditation-induced near-death experiences: A three-year prospective study. Mindfulness, Advance Online Publication, DOI:10.1007/s12671-018-0922-3

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Research paper thumbnail of Shonin, E., Van Gordon, W., Dunn, T., Singh, N., & Griffiths, M. D. (2014). Meditation Awareness Training (MAT) for work-related wellbeing and job performance: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 12, 806-823.

Shonin, E., Van Gordon, W., Dunn, T., Singh, N., & Griffiths, M. D. (2014). Meditation Awareness Training (MAT) for work-related wellbeing and job performance: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 12, 806-823.

Due to its potential to concurrently improve work-related wellbeing (WRW) and job performance, oc... more Due to its potential to concurrently improve work-related wellbeing (WRW) and job performance, occupational stakeholders are becoming increasingly interested in the applications of meditation. The present study conducted the first randomized controlled trial to assess the effects of meditation on outcomes relating to both WRW and job performance. Office-based middle-hierarchy managers (n=152) received an eight-week meditation intervention (Meditation Awareness Training; MAT) or an active control intervention. MAT participants demonstrated significant and sustainable improvements (with strong effect sizes) over control-group participants in levels of work-related stress, job satisfaction, psychological distress, and employer-rated job performance. There are a number of novel implications: (i) meditation can effectuate a perceptual shift in how employees experience their work and psychological environment and may thus constitute a cost-effective WRW intervention, (ii) meditation-based (i.e., present-moment-focussed) working styles may be more effective than goal-based (i.e., future-orientated) working styles, and (iii) meditation may reduce the separation made by employees between their own interests and those of the organizations they work for.

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Research paper thumbnail of Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2016). Meditation Awareness Training for the treatment of fibromyalgia: A randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Health Psychology, Advance Online Publication, doi:10.1111/bjhp.12224.

Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2016). Meditation Awareness Training for the treatment of fibromyalgia: A randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Health Psychology, Advance Online Publication, doi:10.1111/bjhp.12224.

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to conduct the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) ... more Objectives. The purpose of this study was to conduct the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the effectiveness of a second-generation mindfulness-based intervention (SG-MBI) for treating fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Compared to firstgeneration
mindfulness-based interventions, SG-MBIs are more acknowledging of the spiritual aspect of mindfulness.
Design. A RCT employing intent-to-treat analysis.
Methods. Adults with FMS received an 8-week SG-MBI known as meditation awareness training (MAT; n = 74) or an active control intervention known as cognitive behaviour theory for groups (n = 74). Assessments were performed at pre-, post-, and 6-month
follow-up phases.
Results. Meditation awareness training participants demonstrated significant and sustained improvements over control group participants in FMS symptomatology, pain perception, sleep quality, psychological distress, non-attachment (to self, symptoms, and environment), and civic engagement. A mediation analysis found that (1) civic engagement
partially mediated treatment effects for all outcome variables, (2) non-attachment partially mediated treatment effects for psychological distress and sleep quality, and (3) non-attachment almost fully mediated treatment effects for FMS symptomatology and pain perception. Average daily time spent in meditation was found to be a significant
predictor of changes in all outcome variables.
Conclusions. Meditation awareness training may be a suitable treatment for adults with FMS and appears to ameliorate FMS symptomatology and pain perception by reducing attachment to self.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2017). Meditation Awareness Training for the treatment of fibromyalgia: A randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Health Psychology, 22, 186-206

Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2017). Meditation Awareness Training for the treatment of fibromyalgia: A randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Health Psychology, 22, 186-206

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to conduct the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) ... more Objectives. The purpose of this study was to conduct the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the effectiveness of a second-generation mindfulness-based intervention (SG-MBI) for treating fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Compared to first-generation mindfulness-based interventions, SG-MBIs are more acknowledging of the spiritual aspect of mindfulness.
Design.
A RCT employing intent-to-treat analysis.
Methods.
Adults with FMS received an 8-week SG-MBI known as meditation awareness training (MAT; n = 74) or an active control intervention known as cognitive behaviour theory for groups (n = 74). Assessments were performed at pre-, post-, and 6-month follow-up phases.
Results.
Meditation awareness training participants demonstrated significant and sustained improvements over control group participants in FMS symptomatology, pain perception, sleep quality, psychological distress, non-attachment (to self, symptoms, and environment), and civic engagement. A mediation analysis found that (1) civic engagement partially mediated treatment effects for all outcome variables, (2) non-attachment partially mediated treatment effects for psychological distress and sleep quality, and (3) non-attachment almost fully mediated treatment effects for FMS symptomatology and pain perception. Average daily time spent in meditation was found to be a significant predictor of changes in all outcome variables.
Conclusions.
Meditation awareness training may be a suitable treatment for adults with FMS and appears to ameliorate FMS symptomatology and pain perception by reducing attachment to self.

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Research paper thumbnail of Meditation awareness training for the treatment of workaholism: A controlled trial

Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn T. J., Garcia-Campayo, J., Griffiths, M. D., (2017). Meditation ... more Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn T. J., Garcia-Campayo, J., Griffiths, M. D., (2017). Meditation Awareness Training for the Treatment of Workaholism: A Controlled Trial. Journal of Behavioural Addictions (in press).

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Methods by Thomas Dunn

Research paper thumbnail of Using 'R' in psychology research

… -beating ways to research and collaborate Tips on …

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Research paper thumbnail of From alpha to omega: A practical solution to the pervasive problem of internal consistency estimation

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of From alpha to omega: A practical solution to the pervasive problem of internal consistency estimation

Coefficient alpha is the most popular measure of reliability (and certainly of internal consisten... more Coefficient alpha is the most popular measure of reliability (and certainly of internal consistency reliability) reported in psychological research. This is noteworthy given the numerous deficiencies of coefficient alpha documented in the psychometric literature. This mismatch between theory and practice appears to arise partly because users of psychological scales are unfamiliar with the psychometric literature on coefficient alpha and partly because alternatives to alpha are not widely known. We present a brief review of the psychometric literature on coefficient alpha, followed by a practical alternative in the form of coefficient omega. To facilitate the shift from alpha to omega, we also present a brief guide to the calculation of point and interval estimates of omega using a free, open source software environment.

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Spatial cognition by Thomas Dunn

Research paper thumbnail of Revisiting the Santa Barbara sense of direction scale, mental rotations, and gender differences in spatial orientation

PsyPAG Quarterly, 2020

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Research paper thumbnail of Spatial memory exclusivity: Examining performance of multiple object-location memories

Research on location memory suggests that integration of separate sources of information does not... more Research on location memory suggests that integration of separate sources of information does not occur when recalling the position of a common target object. In a relatively simple task, previous research shows no observable benefit from holding two spatial memories compared to one. It has been suggested that exclusively utilising only one of two memories may account for this finding. The current research tests the robustness of this idea as well as an alternative in the form of an averaging approach to combining spatial information. The results suggest that exclusivity may not be the best account for multiple spatial memory performance. Rather, memories may well combine in a manner similar to averaging, where information is available for each memory but combined in a non-beneficial way.

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Collaborative projects by Thomas Dunn

Research paper thumbnail of Borderline personality traits in attractive women and wealthy low attractive men are relatively favoured by the opposite sex

Personality and individual differences, 2020

Men and women reliably differ on the importance of certain criteria when considering romantic rel... more Men and women reliably differ on the importance of certain criteria when considering romantic relationships. From an evolutionary perspective that explains sex differences in mating effort and parental investment, men should prioritise attractiveness and women, wealth. Personality traits also signal important information about relationship potential with those of the dark triad facilitating short-term relationships. However, how the vulnerable dark triad traits of borderline personality disorder (BPD) and secondary psychopathyfunction in relationships remains relatively unexplored. Even though interpersonally tempestuous, individuals high in these traits might be alluring in that they offer a thrilling relationship for the short-term, so long as they are also physically appealing. Across two studies, we examined sex differences in partner preference judged on attractiveness in relation to BPD and secondary psychopathy across short- and long-term relationship contexts. Men were willing to engage in relationships with attractive women high in BPD traits, while women compensated low attractiveness for wealth in long-term dating, and did not desire secondary psychopathy in any relationship. Results show that women are more astute in mate preference, avoiding troublesome or financially challenged men who are time and economically costly, and men more readily engage in potentially turbulent relationships.

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Research paper thumbnail of Assessing externalising and internalising behaviour in children

The study was designed to investigate externalizing and internalizing behaviours in a typical sch... more The study was designed to investigate externalizing and internalizing behaviours in a typical school-aged sample of children (N=112) using the Polish version of the Motor Behaviour Checklist for Children. The instrument was translated into Polish and teachers observed and recorded the motor behaviour of their students in school settings during physical education and free play situations. Findings demonstrated a psychometrically robust application of the MBC in a Polish sample as well as gender differences in total externalizing scores. In addition, age was found to be significant correlated with internalizing scores and especially with the social interaction factor. Teachers reported boys as more inattentive and more hyperactive/impulsive than girls and more likely to display externalising symptoms connected with ADHD particularly in school settings. Findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis and have practical implications when designing behavioural management programs and educational interventions in school settings.

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Research paper thumbnail of Applying Pleck's model of paternal involvement to the study of preschool attachment quality: a proof of concept study

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Research paper thumbnail of Kuss, D. J., Dunn, T. J., Wölfling, K., Müller, K. W., Hędzelek, M., & Marcinkowski, J. (2016). Excessive Internet use and psychopathology: The role of coping. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, in press.

Kuss, D. J., Dunn, T. J., Wölfling, K., Müller, K. W., Hędzelek, M., & Marcinkowski, J. (2016). Excessive Internet use and psychopathology: The role of coping. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, in press.

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Research paper thumbnail of Shonin, E., Van Gordon, W., Dunn, T., Singh, N., & Griffiths, M. D. (2014). Meditation Awareness Training for work-related wellbeing and job performance: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, DOI 10.1007/s11469-014-9513-2

Shonin, E., Van Gordon, W., Dunn, T., Singh, N., & Griffiths, M. D. (2014). Meditation Awareness Training for work-related wellbeing and job performance: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, DOI 10.1007/s11469-014-9513-2

International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 2014

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Research paper thumbnail of Meditation-Induced Near-Death Experiences: a 3-Year Longitudinal Study

Mindfulness

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of a regional school-based mindfulness programme on students’ levels of Wellbeing and resiliency

International Journal of Spa and Wellness

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Animal-Assisted Interventions for school-aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a meta-analysis

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2021

Research has indicated beneficial effects of Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs) for children wi... more Research has indicated beneficial effects of Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs) for children with Autism. However, there is a dearth of meta-analyses and the findings are often contradictory. The current meta-analysis assesses the effectiveness of AAIs on social interaction, communication and global Autism symptoms. A total of 1447 studies were returned, of which 16 (n = 489) met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analyses indicated small effect sizes related to improvements in social interaction and communication and reduction in ASD symptoms. Additionally, there was little evidence for a relationship between dosage and effect size. In conclusion, AAIs appear to offer small improvements in social interaction and communication for children with Autism, which may be comparable to activities used in active control conditions.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of The effect of mindfulness-based interventions on immunity-related biomarkers: a comprehensive meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Clinical Psychology Review, 2022

One proposed pathway that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) may offer a salutogenic effect o... more One proposed pathway that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) may offer a salutogenic effect on somatic disorders is by enhancing immune function. As such, we conducted a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials examining the effect of MBIs at post-intervention and follow-up for six immune-related biomarkers, including CD4+ cells, C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, nuclear factor-κB, telomere length, and telomerase activity. Potential studies were identified by searching ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Academic Search Complete, AMED, MEDLINE, PsycARTICLES, and PsycINFO. Searches returned 1959 studies, of which 48 (70 effects) were included (N = 4683). Pooled effect sizes indicated a reduction in C-reactive protein (SMCD = -.14, 95% CI [-.26 – -.01]) and interleukin-6 (SMCD = -.35, 95% CI [-.67 – -.03]), and an increase in CD4+ (SMCD = .09, 95% CI [-.05 – .22]), telomere length (SMCD = .12, 95% CI [.00 – .24]) and telomerase activity (SMCD = .81, 95% CI [.17 –
1.46]) at post-intervention. At follow-up, results showed a reduction in interleukin-6 (SMCD = -.13, 95% CI [-.29 – .03]) and C-reactive protein (SMCD = -.39, 95% CI [-.68 – -.10]) and increase in CD4+ (SMCD = .22, 95% CI [-.08 – .52]). Meta-regression results showed that some heterogeneity in effect size could be accounted for by intervention dosage, study population, and study design. Our findings quantify MBIs’ potential for improving immune function and thus impacting somatic disorders.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring Emptiness and its Effects on Non-Attachment, Mystical Experiences, and Psycho-spiritual Wellbeing: A Quantitative and Qualitative Study of Advanced Meditators

Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T. J., Sapthiang, S., Kotera, Y., Garcia-Campayo, J., Sheffield... more Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T. J., Sapthiang, S., Kotera, Y., Garcia-Campayo, J., Sheffield, D. (2018). Exploring emptiness and its effects on non-attachment, mystical experiences, and psychospiritual wellbeing: a quantitative and qualitative study of advanced meditators. Explore: the journal of science and healing (In Press).

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Meditation-induced near-death experiences: A three-year prospective study.

Mindfulness, 2018

Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Sheffield, D., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2018... more Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Sheffield, D., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2018). Meditation-induced near-death experiences: A three-year prospective study. Mindfulness, Advance Online Publication, DOI:10.1007/s12671-018-0922-3

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Research paper thumbnail of Shonin, E., Van Gordon, W., Dunn, T., Singh, N., & Griffiths, M. D. (2014). Meditation Awareness Training (MAT) for work-related wellbeing and job performance: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 12, 806-823.

Shonin, E., Van Gordon, W., Dunn, T., Singh, N., & Griffiths, M. D. (2014). Meditation Awareness Training (MAT) for work-related wellbeing and job performance: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 12, 806-823.

Due to its potential to concurrently improve work-related wellbeing (WRW) and job performance, oc... more Due to its potential to concurrently improve work-related wellbeing (WRW) and job performance, occupational stakeholders are becoming increasingly interested in the applications of meditation. The present study conducted the first randomized controlled trial to assess the effects of meditation on outcomes relating to both WRW and job performance. Office-based middle-hierarchy managers (n=152) received an eight-week meditation intervention (Meditation Awareness Training; MAT) or an active control intervention. MAT participants demonstrated significant and sustainable improvements (with strong effect sizes) over control-group participants in levels of work-related stress, job satisfaction, psychological distress, and employer-rated job performance. There are a number of novel implications: (i) meditation can effectuate a perceptual shift in how employees experience their work and psychological environment and may thus constitute a cost-effective WRW intervention, (ii) meditation-based (i.e., present-moment-focussed) working styles may be more effective than goal-based (i.e., future-orientated) working styles, and (iii) meditation may reduce the separation made by employees between their own interests and those of the organizations they work for.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2016). Meditation Awareness Training for the treatment of fibromyalgia: A randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Health Psychology, Advance Online Publication, doi:10.1111/bjhp.12224.

Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2016). Meditation Awareness Training for the treatment of fibromyalgia: A randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Health Psychology, Advance Online Publication, doi:10.1111/bjhp.12224.

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to conduct the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) ... more Objectives. The purpose of this study was to conduct the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the effectiveness of a second-generation mindfulness-based intervention (SG-MBI) for treating fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Compared to firstgeneration
mindfulness-based interventions, SG-MBIs are more acknowledging of the spiritual aspect of mindfulness.
Design. A RCT employing intent-to-treat analysis.
Methods. Adults with FMS received an 8-week SG-MBI known as meditation awareness training (MAT; n = 74) or an active control intervention known as cognitive behaviour theory for groups (n = 74). Assessments were performed at pre-, post-, and 6-month
follow-up phases.
Results. Meditation awareness training participants demonstrated significant and sustained improvements over control group participants in FMS symptomatology, pain perception, sleep quality, psychological distress, non-attachment (to self, symptoms, and environment), and civic engagement. A mediation analysis found that (1) civic engagement
partially mediated treatment effects for all outcome variables, (2) non-attachment partially mediated treatment effects for psychological distress and sleep quality, and (3) non-attachment almost fully mediated treatment effects for FMS symptomatology and pain perception. Average daily time spent in meditation was found to be a significant
predictor of changes in all outcome variables.
Conclusions. Meditation awareness training may be a suitable treatment for adults with FMS and appears to ameliorate FMS symptomatology and pain perception by reducing attachment to self.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2017). Meditation Awareness Training for the treatment of fibromyalgia: A randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Health Psychology, 22, 186-206

Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn, T., Garcia-Campayo, J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2017). Meditation Awareness Training for the treatment of fibromyalgia: A randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Health Psychology, 22, 186-206

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to conduct the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) ... more Objectives. The purpose of this study was to conduct the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the effectiveness of a second-generation mindfulness-based intervention (SG-MBI) for treating fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Compared to first-generation mindfulness-based interventions, SG-MBIs are more acknowledging of the spiritual aspect of mindfulness.
Design.
A RCT employing intent-to-treat analysis.
Methods.
Adults with FMS received an 8-week SG-MBI known as meditation awareness training (MAT; n = 74) or an active control intervention known as cognitive behaviour theory for groups (n = 74). Assessments were performed at pre-, post-, and 6-month follow-up phases.
Results.
Meditation awareness training participants demonstrated significant and sustained improvements over control group participants in FMS symptomatology, pain perception, sleep quality, psychological distress, non-attachment (to self, symptoms, and environment), and civic engagement. A mediation analysis found that (1) civic engagement partially mediated treatment effects for all outcome variables, (2) non-attachment partially mediated treatment effects for psychological distress and sleep quality, and (3) non-attachment almost fully mediated treatment effects for FMS symptomatology and pain perception. Average daily time spent in meditation was found to be a significant predictor of changes in all outcome variables.
Conclusions.
Meditation awareness training may be a suitable treatment for adults with FMS and appears to ameliorate FMS symptomatology and pain perception by reducing attachment to self.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Meditation awareness training for the treatment of workaholism: A controlled trial

Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn T. J., Garcia-Campayo, J., Griffiths, M. D., (2017). Meditation ... more Van Gordon, W., Shonin, E., Dunn T. J., Garcia-Campayo, J., Griffiths, M. D., (2017). Meditation Awareness Training for the Treatment of Workaholism: A Controlled Trial. Journal of Behavioural Addictions (in press).

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Research paper thumbnail of Using 'R' in psychology research

… -beating ways to research and collaborate Tips on …

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Research paper thumbnail of From alpha to omega: A practical solution to the pervasive problem of internal consistency estimation

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of From alpha to omega: A practical solution to the pervasive problem of internal consistency estimation

Coefficient alpha is the most popular measure of reliability (and certainly of internal consisten... more Coefficient alpha is the most popular measure of reliability (and certainly of internal consistency reliability) reported in psychological research. This is noteworthy given the numerous deficiencies of coefficient alpha documented in the psychometric literature. This mismatch between theory and practice appears to arise partly because users of psychological scales are unfamiliar with the psychometric literature on coefficient alpha and partly because alternatives to alpha are not widely known. We present a brief review of the psychometric literature on coefficient alpha, followed by a practical alternative in the form of coefficient omega. To facilitate the shift from alpha to omega, we also present a brief guide to the calculation of point and interval estimates of omega using a free, open source software environment.

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Research paper thumbnail of Revisiting the Santa Barbara sense of direction scale, mental rotations, and gender differences in spatial orientation

PsyPAG Quarterly, 2020

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Spatial memory exclusivity: Examining performance of multiple object-location memories

Research on location memory suggests that integration of separate sources of information does not... more Research on location memory suggests that integration of separate sources of information does not occur when recalling the position of a common target object. In a relatively simple task, previous research shows no observable benefit from holding two spatial memories compared to one. It has been suggested that exclusively utilising only one of two memories may account for this finding. The current research tests the robustness of this idea as well as an alternative in the form of an averaging approach to combining spatial information. The results suggest that exclusivity may not be the best account for multiple spatial memory performance. Rather, memories may well combine in a manner similar to averaging, where information is available for each memory but combined in a non-beneficial way.

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Research paper thumbnail of Borderline personality traits in attractive women and wealthy low attractive men are relatively favoured by the opposite sex

Personality and individual differences, 2020

Men and women reliably differ on the importance of certain criteria when considering romantic rel... more Men and women reliably differ on the importance of certain criteria when considering romantic relationships. From an evolutionary perspective that explains sex differences in mating effort and parental investment, men should prioritise attractiveness and women, wealth. Personality traits also signal important information about relationship potential with those of the dark triad facilitating short-term relationships. However, how the vulnerable dark triad traits of borderline personality disorder (BPD) and secondary psychopathyfunction in relationships remains relatively unexplored. Even though interpersonally tempestuous, individuals high in these traits might be alluring in that they offer a thrilling relationship for the short-term, so long as they are also physically appealing. Across two studies, we examined sex differences in partner preference judged on attractiveness in relation to BPD and secondary psychopathy across short- and long-term relationship contexts. Men were willing to engage in relationships with attractive women high in BPD traits, while women compensated low attractiveness for wealth in long-term dating, and did not desire secondary psychopathy in any relationship. Results show that women are more astute in mate preference, avoiding troublesome or financially challenged men who are time and economically costly, and men more readily engage in potentially turbulent relationships.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Assessing externalising and internalising behaviour in children

The study was designed to investigate externalizing and internalizing behaviours in a typical sch... more The study was designed to investigate externalizing and internalizing behaviours in a typical school-aged sample of children (N=112) using the Polish version of the Motor Behaviour Checklist for Children. The instrument was translated into Polish and teachers observed and recorded the motor behaviour of their students in school settings during physical education and free play situations. Findings demonstrated a psychometrically robust application of the MBC in a Polish sample as well as gender differences in total externalizing scores. In addition, age was found to be significant correlated with internalizing scores and especially with the social interaction factor. Teachers reported boys as more inattentive and more hyperactive/impulsive than girls and more likely to display externalising symptoms connected with ADHD particularly in school settings. Findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis and have practical implications when designing behavioural management programs and educational interventions in school settings.

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Research paper thumbnail of Applying Pleck's model of paternal involvement to the study of preschool attachment quality: a proof of concept study

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Research paper thumbnail of Kuss, D. J., Dunn, T. J., Wölfling, K., Müller, K. W., Hędzelek, M., & Marcinkowski, J. (2016). Excessive Internet use and psychopathology: The role of coping. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, in press.

Kuss, D. J., Dunn, T. J., Wölfling, K., Müller, K. W., Hędzelek, M., & Marcinkowski, J. (2016). Excessive Internet use and psychopathology: The role of coping. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, in press.

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Research paper thumbnail of Postmodern society and the individual: The structural characteristics of postmodern society and how they shape who we think we are

The Social Science Journal, 2012

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Research paper thumbnail of Existential threats of immigration and terrorism predict voting for Brexit and Trump Running head: EXISTENTIAL THREATS PREDICT VOTING FOR BREXIT AND TRUMP

Evolutionary Psychological Science, 2020

The year 2016 witnessed historic political change with the ascension to power of Donald Trump and... more The year 2016 witnessed historic political change with the ascension to power of Donald Trump and the UK’s vote to leave the European Union (i.e. Brexit). Research has sought to explain these once-deemed unlikely events, yet an evolutionary theoretical account remains unexplored. From a life history perspective, a rise in existential threat, potentially caused by increased media coverage of the War in Syria and immigration issues, may have prompted a shift to a faster life history strategy (LHS)/pace of life syndrome (POLS). Immediate answers were sought despite long-term consequences. In this multiple study paper, we shed light on this thesis. Firstly, in establishing a perceived increase in existential threats between 2014 and 2016. Secondly, by examining if LHS/POLS and associated proxies, as well as fear of terrorism and immigration predicted voting for Brexit or Trump. Trump voters feared terrorism, and Brexit voters feared immigration, but LHS/POLS was not directly, nor ultimately influential in their vote choice; however, for those that did not vote, it was. Nevertheless, other life history proxies were important factors in voting. Thus, the link between LHS/POLS and voting is complex but affords new insight into voter psychology during the EU referendum and US presidential election.

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Research paper thumbnail of Postmodern society and the individual:The structural characteristics of postmodern society and how they shape who we think we are

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Research paper thumbnail of The robustness of anti-atheist prejudice as measured by way of cognitive errors

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Research paper thumbnail of The effect of mindfulness-based interventions on inattentive and hyperactive–impulsive behavior in childhood: A meta-analysis

International Journal of Behavioral Development, 2020

Current research has reported the beneficial effects of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on... more Current research has reported the beneficial effects of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on general domains of cognition and behavior among children. The present study is the first meta-analysis with controlled studies investigating the pre-post change effects of MBIs on two widely experienced behaviors in childhood education, namely inattentiveness and hyperactivity–impulsivity. With a special developmental focus on the early years, a total of 21 studies with 3- to 12-year-old children were included in the meta-analysis. Results indicated that MBIs decreased children’s overall inattentive and hyperactive–impulsive behavior with a small but significant effect size ( k = 21, g+= .38, p < .001). However, this overall positive effect was only significant when teachers rated children’s behavior and nonsignificant when parents and children themselves were the informants. Additionally, MBIs showed a moderate effect in reducing inattentiveness and hyperactivity–impulsivity for chi...

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Research paper thumbnail of Revisiting the Santa Barbara sense of direction scale, mental rotations, and gender differences in spatial orientation

PsyPag Quarterly

Angular direction estimation to landmarks of varying distance in the physical environment was uti... more Angular direction estimation to landmarks of varying distance in the physical environment was utilised to investigate the ecological validity of the Santa Barbara sense of direction scale (SBSOD). Two- and three-dimensional MR measures were included to enable further the scale applicability. Results showed a moderate correlation between SBSOD and angular deviation from landmarks in the immediate landscape, but not with local or distant landmarks. Moreover, the findings suggest that skills which underlie three-dimensional MR better relate to pointing accuracy (PA) of distant landmarks and the cardinal direction, North. Results also showed a gender-related systematic biases in landmark estimation.

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Research paper thumbnail of The use of ‘R’ statistical software in psychology research

The following article is designed to bring to the attention of researchers the possibilities of u... more The following article is designed to bring to the attention of researchers the possibilities of using statistical software other than SPSS, which has become something of a convention in psychology. It will briefly highlight the considerable advantages of using R (Ihaka & Gentleman, 1996) as well as offer directions for pursuing a more comprehensive ‘R’ education.

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Research paper thumbnail of Existential Threats of Immigration and Terrorism Predict Voting for Brexit and Trump

Evolutionary Psychological Science, 2020

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Research paper thumbnail of Improving the Use of Technology Enhanced Learning Environments in Higher Education in the UK: A Qualitative Visualization of Students’ Views

Contemporary Educational Technology, 2018

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Research paper thumbnail of Exploring Emptiness and its Effects on Non-attachment, Mystical Experiences, and Psycho-spiritual Wellbeing: A Quantitative and Qualitative Study of Advanced Meditators

EXPLORE, 2018

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Research paper thumbnail of The Robustness of Anti-Atheist Prejudice as Measured by Way of Cognitive Errors

The International Journal for the Psychology of Religion, 2015

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Research paper thumbnail of Animal-Assisted Interventions for School-Aged Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2020

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Research paper thumbnail of Spatial memory exclusivity: Examining performance of multiple object-location memories

Spatial Cognition & Computation, 2017

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Research paper thumbnail of From alpha to omega: A practical solution to the pervasive problem of internal consistency estimation

British Journal of Psychology, 2013

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Research paper thumbnail of Borderline personality traits in attractive women and wealthy low attractive men are relatively favoured by the opposite sex

Personality and Individual Differences, 2021

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Research paper thumbnail of Applying Pleck's model of paternal involvement to the study of preschool attachment quality: a proof of concept study

Early Child Development and Care, 2014

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