Cultivating kindness and compassion with mindfulness apps: An intersectional study

Study overview

This interdisciplinary research project considers people’s experiences of mindfulness apps in cultivating kindness and compassion (K&C), and how automated mindfulness training is perceived to foster personal well-being.

We will interview people who have practised meditation exercises focussed on kindness and/or compassion via an app with a focus on both positive and negative or unusual experiences, as well as any differences between in their experience of in-person and app-based meditation practice. We are particularly interested to hear from a diverse range of participants. All participants' identities will be kept confidential.

This project will provide invaluable data for understanding individuals’ experiences with automated training in K&C. This question is particularly pertinent in a contemporary context in which millions of people rely on mindfulness apps to enhance their wellbeing. In addition, this project will provide insights into the possibilities and limitations of automated tools such as apps in cultivating mindfulness, especially for diverse populations.

Eligibility criteria

We are seeking participants who:

• Are over 18;
• Have resided in Melbourne since at least 2019; and
• Have practised meditation exercises focussed on kindness and/or compassion via an app.

What the research involves

Should you agree to participate, you will be invited to take part in an interview. The interview will be audio recorded and will take a maximum of one hour. These interviews will be conducted in person.

Reimbursement

As compensation for your participation, you will be reimbursed $40 (AUD) per hour to be interviewed. You may nominate this to be paid to an approved charitable organisation on your behalf.

How to participate

Follow the link below to a very short eligibility survey via where you can provide your contact details.

Take the survey

Contact

Responsible researcher: Associate Professor Ana Dragojlovic, Contemplative Studies Centre, The University of Melbourne (E: ana.dragojlovic@unimelb.edu.au).

Approved by the University of Melbourne Human Research Ethics Committee (ID 28392).