The Observed Mindful Behaviours scale

Objective . To offer another lens to study mindfulness, particularly how mindfulness influences behaviours and social relationships, this paper reports the creation of the Observed Mindful Behaviours (OMB) scale. The OMB responds to limitations in current evidence including the reliance on self-report data. Methods . A 9-item observer-report scale was refined and tested in two samples (N=200) using item response theory and confirmatory factor analysis. Survey data from 190 dyads (N=380) were used to test construct validity of the refined scale. Spearman’s correlations tested a proposed nomological network for observed mindful behaviours. Regression models assessed the strength of observed correlations. Results. A 3-dimensional structure of the 9-item OMB was confirmed (RMSEA=0.098, w _t =0.88). Criterion validity was supported by good alignment with trait mindfulness (β=0.42, R ² =0.15) and interpersonal mindfulness (β=0.17, R ² =0.12). Construct validity tests showed congruence with empathy and divergence from psychological inflexibility, but prosocial intentions, distress, anger reactivity or psychological capital were discriminant constructs. Conclusions . The new OMB scale detects the extent to which a person known to the rater (family, friend or colleague) behaves in a way that is noticeably attentive, aware and accepting (or mindful). Alignment with behavioural drivers (empathy, acceptance) but not behavioural states (distress, anger, intentions), or psychological capital, helps clarify what the OMB assesses. The OMB can be used to triangulate and strengthen self-reported findings and help examine how mindfulness comes across to others.