Meditation, Emotions, and Female Offenders (From Female Offenders: Critical Perspectives and Effective Interventions, Second Edition, P 421-446, 2008, Ruth T. Zaplin, ed. -- See NCJ-225923)

• NCJ Number: 225934
• Author(s): Elaine J. Yuen
• Date Published: 2008
• Length: 26 pages
• Sale Source: Jones and Bartlett Publishers
• Publication Format: Book Chapter
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter discusses the benefits of meditation in helping female offenders learn how to relate with and handle afflictive emotions and develop a sense of well-being and a positive outlook on life.

Abstract

Meditation has been used for a span of a thousand years as a way to calm and stabilize the mind. Individuals who practice mediation regularly have significant reductions in anxiety and depression. Meditation has the possibility of addressing many of the emotional issues that female offenders may have: the fear of self and others; the chain of habits and impulsive behaviors; the inner dialogues that generate negative self-esteem. Research has shown that meditation programs with female offenders are helpful. This chapter discusses how meditation practices work with the emotions, presents two frequently taught types of sitting meditation, gives examples of how meditation practices have helped those with mental health and substance abuse problems, and outlines some practical considerations when implementing meditation programs for female offenders. Appendixes and references