For Whom Does a Brief Mindfulness Induction Work? An exploration of the moderating role of individual differences in the effect of mindfulness induction on executive functioning and mind-wandering

Objective Short mindfulness inductions might be expected to have beneficial effects on executive functions and mind-wandering; however, the empirical results are mixed. This might be explained by individual differences in the effect. This study aims to examine the impact of a 10-minute-long mindfulness induction on executive functions and mind-wandering to assess whether the effects are moderated by individual differences, including trait mindfulness, Big Five personality traits, trait anxiety, trait mind-wandering, mindfulness mindset and baseline mood state in addition to previous mindfulness meditation experience. Methods Participants were randomly assigned to either a brief mindfulness exercise condition or an audio book listening control condition. Executive functions were assessed using cognitive tasks, while mind-wandering was measured through a reading task with probe-caught questions. Moderator variables included various dispositional traits and baseline mood state. Results The mindfulness induction successfully induced a temporary state of mindfulness but did not yield overall improvements in executive functions or mind-wandering. However, moderation analyses revealed that mindfulness traits such as description and observation, the personality trait of imagination and baseline negative mood state moderated the effects on working memory and cognitive inhibition. Conclusion The effects of mindfulness inductions on cognitive performance do depend on individual differences. This underscores the importance of considering personal traits when evaluating the cognitive effects of mindfulness inductions.