Mindfulness and Anxiety in Young Adults: Evidence from a Quasi-experimental Study in a Spanish University Context

Evidence from a Quasi-experimental Study in a Spanish University Context

Abstract

Background: Mindfulness-based interventions have demonstrated robust efficacy in anxiety disorder treatment, yet the underlying cognitive mechanisms in young Spanish adults remain undercharacterized. Method: A quasi-experimental repeated-measures study (n = 84) was conducted with intervention and control groups across an eight-week MBSR program. The Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) were administered at two time points. Results: The intervention group showed significant reductions in anxiety scores (d = 0.72, p < .001) and improvements in FFMQ observation and non-judging facets. Mediation analyses indicated that change in the Non-judging facet partially mediated the effect of MBSR on anxiety. Conclusion: Systematic mindfulness practice reduces anxiety symptomatology through enhancement of cognitive decentering, with clinical implications for primary care protocols.