Explaining Gender Differences in Mindfulness Interest: Applying the Theory of Planned Behavior
Open Access
Author:
Yamane, Suzuka
Area of Honors:
Psychology
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Alicia Ann Grandey, Thesis Supervisor Susan Simkins, Thesis Honors Advisor
Keywords:
Gender Differences Mindfulness Theory of Planned Behavior Holistic Wellness
Abstract:
Evidence suggests that men are significantly less likely to utilize mindfulness-based practices than women, yet little is known about the psychosocial factors that influence this gender difference. Applying the theory of planned behavior, I propose that gender differences in mindfulness interest are explained by gender differences in attitudes towards mindfulness, social norms surrounding mindfulness, and self-efficacy for practicing mindfulness. A survey study with 213 undergraduate students (Study 1) confirmed that men are less likely to sign up for a mindfulness-based class than women. Additionally, results revealed a significant indirect effect of gender on intention to sign up for a mindfulness-based class through self-efficacy. However, no significant indirect effect was found through social norms or attitude. Furthermore, an experimental study (Study 2) with 286 male undergraduate students was designed that manipulated three ways of marketing mindfulness classes: (1) beneficial for health and performance (control – positive attitudes), (2) male-led and male-dominated class (control + social norm), and (3) efficient and beginner-level mindfulness class (control + efficacy). The male social norm class increased intentions to sign up for a mindfulness-based class compared to both the other groups; surprisingly, this effect was explained by self-efficacy rather than social norms. Our research has important practical implications, suggesting that creating a male-dominated class environment is effective in increasing male interest in mindfulness-based practices.
