Journal of Psychology & Behavioral Science

Reducing Burnout through a Mindful Meditation Mobile App: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Julie J. Lanz, Ph.D; Krista Fritson, Psy.D; Kendra Hoffert, B.S; KC Carrillo, B.A.

Abstract
Given recent findings on the positive effects of mindful meditation interventions, exploring its benefits through new delivery mediums is valuable. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of a mindful meditation intervention on burnout and mood using a mobile app (Smiling Mind) in 105 working adults in the United States. Mobile apps allow for standardized delivery in busy populations at a low cost and high convenience. Interventions can be conducted over the internet with no requirement of travel or professional training. This was a randomized controlled trial design conducted over an 8-week period. Teachers and staff from a rural public school system as well as city agency employees were randomly assigned to the intervention (N = 51) or wait-list control group (N = 54). The intervention group used the app five times a week for at least ten minutes, and the control group did not. Both groups completed pre- and post-surveys and six weekly mood surveys. Results indicate that burnout significantly decreased in the intervention group only, and there were no significant changes in mood. Mindful meditation interventions using a smartphoneapp are an effective intervention method for reducing burnout in working adults.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jpbs.v7n2a7