Towards a Contemplative Research Framework for Training Self-Observation in HCI: A Study of Compassion Cultivation

With the emergence in human–computer interaction (HCI) of researching contemplative practices, authentic descriptions of first-person lived experience informing design are few. Most researchers in HCI are not trained in observing the mind. We draw on learnings from neurophenomenology, inspired by well-established Buddhist techniques for mind-training. We present a self-observation of Tonglen , a Buddhist meditation technique for compassion, conducted over 12 weeks. We found that to keenly observe and document the practice, it is important to go through preparatory stages of stabilising attention and observing the mind. For the practitioner-cum-researcher, the technique should be embedded into a framework training self-observation and developing meta-awareness, supported by documentation of somatic snapshots and reflective journal writing. The first-person method of self-enquiry and account of self-evidence offer insight and directions for refining first-person approaches for future HCI research in body and mind cultivation, and design implications for interactive technologies supporting any practice with a contemplative component.

Mind training, stress and behaviour—A randomised experiment

In this paper, we evaluate the effects of a psychological training, called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) on stress and risk and time preferences. MBSR is a well-known psychological technique, which is believed to improve self-control and reduce stress. We conduct the experiment with 139 participants, half of whom receive the MBSR training, while the other half are asked to watch a documentary series, both over 4 consecutive weeks. Using a range of self-reported and physiological measures (such as cortisol measures), we find evidence that mindfulness training reduces perceived stress, but we only find weak evidence of effects on risk and inter-temporal attitudes.

An Investigation of Middle Secondary School Bhutanese Students’ Assertiveness

The purpose of this study was to investigate and determine middle secondary school students’ assertiveness. A total of 88 IT students in one of the middle secondary schools in central Bhutan was surveyed. Students were classified based on two age groups of below 15 years and 15 to 18 years of age. Questionnaire was used to assess whether the attitudes of the students were passive, aggressive or assertive. The questionnaire was developed based on the book "Assertiveness" by Chalvin, (1981) and the interpretations from Pro mind training (2012). The questions corresponded to the three attitudes i.e. passive, aggressive and assertive attitude. 53.4 %, 35.2% and 11.4% of the total students were found passive, assertive and aggressive respectively. The results indicated female students to be more assertive than the male students from the age groups.

Developing Self-Compassion Online: Assessing the Efficacy and Feasibility of a Brief Online Intervention

The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy and feasibility of a newly designed online self-compassion training programme for the general public. Two hundred and forty-nine participants were randomly assigned to have either immediate or delayed access to a four-week online self-compassion training programme. This programme was based on Compassionate Mind Training and was made up of psychoeducational sessions and in-between session practices and readings. Out of the 179 participants who completed the pre-intervention measures, 81 participants completed the waiting list control design (45.25%; 52 participants from the waiting list group and 29 from the intervention group) and 50 participants went on to complete the intervention (27.9%; i.e., combining the 21 participants from the waiting list group that completed the intervention with the 29 from the intervention group). Compared to the control group, participants in the intervention group showed statistically significant increases in self-compassion and well-being and significant decreases in uncompassionate attitude towards self, shame, self-criticism, depression, anxiety, stress, levels of fear of compassion and attachment avoidance and anxiety. These effects remained at a one month follow up (based on data from 31 participants who completed these measures). The number of sessions completed was significantly predicted by baseline levels of well-being. This study provides promising results for the use of online self-compassion interventions to improve the mental wellbeing of the general public. However, further research is now needed to help understand the barriers to engagement and to help tailor its format to better suit participants who disengaged.

An identity transformation leads to an inner construction

This article presents a research conducted with six French physicians who have been trained in complementary and alternative medicines. The perceived effects of this body-mind training, i.e. Awakening the Sensible Being, are being addressed in the thesis. These Awakening the Sensible Being practices help develop a quality of presence to self and to others, which are desirable qualities for health care professionals. An investigation conducted using two types of interviews: comprehensive interview and explicitation interview. The two paths of analysis will be introduced, as well as the achieved results which are linked to the personal sphere of the participants. The participants reported having experienced some identity transformations which lead them to place more emphasis on their inner references rather than external ones. They also reported feeling more centered and healthier.