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A Qualitative Examination of Perceptions of Mindfulness Among Arab, Middle Eastern, and North African Americans: Implications for Cultural Adaptation of Mindfulness-Based Interventions.

Andrea HaidarMaria A KalantzisMeghana NallajerlaAlyssa M VelaShelley R AdlerInger Burnett-Zeigler
Published in: Global advances in integrative medicine and health (2024)
The participants in this study described experiencing high levels of stress and identified micro- and macro-level stressors related to their Arab/MENA American identity, including discrimination, exclusion, historical and intergenerational trauma, and protracted sociopolitical crises in their heritage countries. They viewed mindfulness as a potentially useful approach to coping with stress. At the same time, participants identified aspects of mindfulness that could be adjusted to better align with their cultural values and experiences. Potential adaptations to MBIs for Arab/MENA Americans were identified based on suggestions from participants and issues they raised while discussing cultural strengths, stressors they face, and perceived barriers and facilitators to engaging in mindfulness practice.
Keyphrases
  • chronic pain
  • healthcare
  • primary care
  • depressive symptoms
  • social support
  • physical activity
  • mental health
  • stress induced
  • human health
  • drug induced