Examining the fabric of mindful parenting and mindfulness-based parenting interventions

Background: Research to date suggests Mindfulness-based Parenting interventions are beneficial for parents, children, and the parent-child relationship. Alongside examining efficacy, researchers have also begun to examine mechanisms of change.

Aim: This narrative review, based on a systematic literature search examined mechanisms that underpin Mindfulness-based Parenting Interventions, drawing on the findings of quantitative studies.

Method: Ten studies were identified and their quality reviewed using quality appraisal checklists. Based on a narrative synthesis, thirteen potential mechanisms of change were identified and organised into three categories: a) parent mindfulness/ emotion regulation, b) mindful parenting/relational factors, and c) other mechanisms of change. The third category included mechanisms examined by single studies.

Results: There is inconsistent and/or limited evidence that mindfulness/emotion regulation and mindfulparenting/relational factors predict positive outcomes. Based on single studies, it was not possible to draw conclusions regarding three mechanisms.

Conclusion: Whilst the review indicated several mediating variables predicted positive outcomes, the lack of consistency, contradictory results, and methodological weaknesses of studies are a barrier to drawing firm conclusions. The outcome of this review and recommendations for further research is discussed.