Mindfulness-Based Programmes for Work Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials.

Abstract

Employers and universities globally subsidise access to mindfulness-based programmes (MBPs) for their employees and students to improve work performance, despite unclear evidence. This paper offers the highest quality synthesis of MBPs' impact on work performance in academic and occupational settings to date (PROSPERO #191756). On 2nd August 2024, we searched eight databases. The primary outcome was task performance-the quantity and quality of completed tasks assigned to the individual. Secondary outcomes were contextual performance, adaptive performance, and counter-productive behaviour. Two independent reviewers selected studies, extracted data, and appraised risks of bias. We conducted pairwise random-effects meta-analyses of 99 studies (N = 16,054). MBPs were found to improve task performance at post-intervention compared to passive control groups (k = 22, Hedges' g = 0.25, 95% CI 0.06-0.44, p = 0.01, I2 = 81.48%) but not compared to active control groups (k = 4, Hedges' g = 0.12, 95% CI -0.3-0.55, p = 0.43, I2 = 62.87%). MBPs improved adaptive performance and contextual performance. Effects may last several months. Confidence in the review results, per Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE), is very low.