Citation

Hartwell S, Allison J, Jones B, Rodrigues R, Chery C, Andrews J, Fulwiler C. Explore (NY) 2018; 14(1): 66-75.

Affiliation

Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.explore.2017.04.021

PMID

29242080

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study uses participatory research methods with survivors of homicide and their service providers to explore the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally adapted mindfulness intervention for stress reduction and resilience in homicide survivors. PROCEDURES: Our mixed methods approach included: (a) previewing a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program with providers and survivors; (b) using their iterative feedback during focus groups to revise the curriculum; and (c) studying the acceptability of the adapted curriculum for survivors through focus group and standardized data collection.

FINDINGS: We learned that providers use mindfulness for self-care and both providers and survivors view the approach for survivors as promising. Based on attendance, participation, and focus group data, the adapted curriculum was both feasible and acceptable. Survivors' reports suggested most experienced improved emotion regulation, feelings of empowerment, and better coping.

CONCLUSIONS: Culturally adapted mindfulness programs may support healing for homicide survivors and possibly other low-income people of color with significant trauma backgrounds. Further investigation is needed to rigorously assess outcomes and specific effects, both positive and negative, of mindfulness in this and other more diversified populations.

Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Language: en

Keywords

community-based participatory research; cultural adaptation; emotion regulation; homicide service providers; homicide survivors; mindfulness