3. Holzel et al. (2011) - Biological Approach

Question 1

Aim of Holzel et al (2)

Answer 1

Use the MBSR course to compare grey matter concentration in specific brain areas and the whole brain before and after the course (pre and post-stages)

*MBSR- Meditation-Based Stress Reduction

Question 2

Psychology being investigated in Holzel et al. (2)

Answer 2

Mindfulness- State achieved through meditation that aims to increase awareness of the present-moment experience.

Localization of function- Particular brain areas are responsible for different activities.

Question 3

Research Method & Experimental Design of Holzel et al. (3)

Answer 3

Laboratory Experiment with longitudinal design

Independent Measures Design

Question 4

IV of Holzel et al

Answer 4

Exposure to an eight-week mindfulness-based intervention, the MBSR course

Question 5

DV of Holzel et al

Answer 5

Change in the grey matter assessed using MRI scans and Response on questionnaires to measure five mindfulness scales (before and after intervention)

Question 6

Sample of Holzel et al (experimental & control, type of sampling? - their conditions) (10)

Answer 6

Experimental:
16
- 6 males
- 10 females
mean age 38
(2 males withdrew – due to discomfort after the first MRI)
Control:
17
- 7 males
- 10 females
mean age 39
Opportunity sampling

Participants for this study were recruited from individuals already enrolled in 4 MBSR courses at the University of Massachusetts

All participants were physically and psychologically healthy
All participants were not on any medication
All participants had limited experience with meditation classes
They all had the same educational level
Incentive of discounted MBRS course fee was given to all