Objective: We reviewed previously published meta-analyses of neurofeedback applied to children with ADHD and conducted a new meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that updates previous results and incorporates methodological modifications. Method: Searches were carried out through PubMed, Sage, PsycINFO, SpringerLink, and Psicodoc. We used Hedges’ (adjusted) g and a random-effects model. To assess heterogeneity, Q and I2 were calculated. We performed different analyses depending on the control groups, ADHD symptoms, pre- and/or posttreament data used and symptom evaluator. Results: We reviewed seven meta-analyses, and 17 studies were incorporated into the meta-analysis. RCTs support the efficacy of neurofeedback applied to ADHD when most proximal evaluators assess symptoms. Neurofeedback significantly improves inattention symptoms when possibly blinded evaluators assess symptoms. The preliminary results suggest that stimulant medication is more effective than neurofeedback. Conclusion: New RCTs that establish links between ADHD symptom measurements, subjects’ learning after neurofeedback, and neurophysiological measures could improve the quality of the conclusions.

Background Clinical and health psychologists are often exposed to occupational hazards, such as burnout and compassion fatigue, which originate from emotional demands at work. Mindful Self‐Compassion (MSC) training has been demonstrated to be useful in increasing well‐being and enhancing mental health. Although the use of the MSC programme in educational contexts has been suggested, an evaluation of its efficacy as a method to improve the competencies of trainees in clinical psychology has yet to be performed. Methods Our study used a sample of 61 adults (88.5% women) attending postgraduate courses in clinical and health psychology who participated in an 8‐week MSC programme. Their levels of self‐compassion, mindfulness, well‐being, anxiety and depression symptoms were assessed before and after the intervention. Based on the participants' adherence to the MSC programme, two groups were created, that is, high (n = 30) versus low (n = 31) adherence. Results The participants in the high‐adherence group benefitted from the MSC programme because they increased their self‐compassion, mindfulness and psychological well‐being scores. The extent to which the participants reported to have been committed to the MSC practice was associated with changes in self‐compassion, mindfulness and psychological well‐being. Furthermore, the changes in self‐compassion were significantly correlated with changes in mindfulness and psychological well‐being. Conclusion The MSC programme offers a promising way to develop professional competencies and enhance the well‐being of trainees in clinical psychology.

ObjectiveDespite consistent evidence for the beneficial effects of meditation on mental health, little is known about the mechanisms that make mindfulness meditation effective.MethodThe levels of mental health, self‐compassion, presence of meaning in life, and experiential avoidance of meditators (n = 414) and nonmeditators (n = 414) were measured and compared. Bootstrap‐based structural equation modeling (SEM) modeling analyses were used to test multiple‐step multiple‐mediator models.ResultsMeditation was positively associated with mental health, although the regularity of practice was an influential element to be considered. Significant indirect effects of meditation on mental health through self‐compassion, meaning in life, and experiential avoidance were found. SEM models were able to account for 58% of the variance in mental health scores.ConclusionsSelf‐compassion, presence of meaning in life, and reduced experiential avoidance may be active components of healthy meditation practices. Identifying the mechanisms involved in effective meditation practices has relevant implications for well‐being and mental health‐promoting interventions.

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Mindfulness is connected to positive outcomes related to mental health and well-being. However, the psychological mechanisms that account for these relationships are largely unknown. A multiple-step multiple mediator structural equation modeling (SEM) model was tested with mindfulness as the independent variable; purpose in life and behavioral activation as serial mediators; and happiness, anxiety, and depression as outcome measures. Data were obtained from 1267 women. Higher mindfulness was associated with higher levels of happiness and lower anxiety and depression symptoms. The association of mindfulness with the outcome variables could be partially accounted for by purpose in life and behavioral activation. The SEM model explained large proportions of variance in happiness (50%), anxiety (34%), and depression (44%) symptoms. Mindfulness is associated with both a sense of purpose in life and engagement in activities, which are also connected with positive outcomes. Moreover, having purposes in life is linked to higher levels of behavioral activation.