Mindfulness: A promising intervention strategy in need of further study

Baer (2003; this issue) has provided a thoughtful conceptual and empirical review of mindfulness-based clinical interventions, emphasizing the need for further research. In this commentary we elaborate on some of the areas needing further study. The promising initial data suggest a need for basic experimental and treatment outcome research in order to determine active ingredients and mechanisms of action in mindfulness-based interventions. In addition, questions remain regarding the optimal mode of delivery of this treatment, as well as how to integrate the nonstriving aspect of mindfulness into clinical intervention.