Classroom anxiety reduction based on mindfulness training

Indianapolis, IN

The purpose of our study is to reduce the amount of anxiety that college students feel by enhancing mindfulness. Mindfulness is being more aware of the present moment in a nonjudgmental way through being aware of our own sensations, thoughts, and bodily states while encouraging openness to new experiences and being more curious and accepting (Hofmann, 2010). Research has shown that mindfulness is a good way to reduce anxiety through sustained attention and being open (Tran, 2013). We hypothesize that mindfulness training will reduce the anxiety experienced before a college class. The mindfulness training should teach students how to relax, focus on the present moment, and not think about the things that might be making them anxious.