This article is Part 1 of a two-part series, in which we report on our evaluation of a mindfulness-based relationship enhancement program for couples who are expecting their first child. In this mixed-methods randomized clinical trial, we assigned 33 couples to the 4-week Mindful Transition to Parenthood Program treatment group (n = 16 couples) or to a waitlist control condition (n = 17 couples). Men in the treatment group significantly improved in relationship satisfaction, mindfulness, and negative affect; women had no significant treatment effects. Small to large effect sizes were present for treatment group men and women in multiple areas. Mixed-methods analyses demonstrated that this intervention may be especially helpful for men because of differences in social support needs, effects of program enrollment, and relational processes in the prenatal period.
Research has demonstrated the benefits of mindfulness interventions with individuals, including connections to increased life satisfaction, and positive affect. Mindfulness has effectively treated anxiety, borderline personality disorder, depression, chronic pain, and addiction. Recent studies show the positive effects of mindfulness on relationship satisfaction, empathy development, and skillful communication. We explore the potential benefits for integrating mindfulness, defined as nonjudgmental awareness, into the practice of marriage and family therapy. We argue that mindfulness may be useful with couples and families to improve communication, emotional regulation, empathy, and relationship well-being. Finally, we discuss practical ways of applying mindfulness in family therapy.
Results suggest that experiential avoidance is important for understanding the relationship between negative emotions and emotional eating and may inform potential strategies for prevention and treatment.
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