Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Publication Date
Spring 5-1-2024
Journal
Undergraduate Honours Theses
Abstract
The impact of meditation and classical music on stress reduction and self-compassion is of considerable interest in psychological research. This study aimed to determine whether a single 10-minute session of a mindfulness meditation or classical music would affect perceived stress and enhance self-compassion. It was hypothesized that both classical music and mindfulness would be effective in reducing stress, but mindfulness meditation would offer the additional benefit of enhancing self-compassion. Participants consisted of 60 undergraduate students enrolled in a first-year introductory psychology course. They were randomly assigned to either a meditation or classical music group. Stress levels were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale, while self-compassion was measured using the Self-Compassion Scale Short Form, both administered after the interventions. The findings indicated no significant differences between the intervention groups in perceived stress or self-compassion. While the study had limitations, including a brief intervention duration and reliance on a convenience sample, it underscores the need for further exploration into the optimal conditions and durations necessary for these interventions to be effective in stress management and emotional well-being.
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Notes
Thesis Advisor(s): Dr. Irene Cheung, Dr. Elizabeth Kinghorn (2nd Reader)