Theories of mindfulness find validity, among others, in Self-Regulation Models of Cognition and Mood (Carver & Scheier, 1981, 1991). The model shows that our mental processes are constantly involved in managing the gap between our current and our desired states in life. This existential gap provides motivation for our behaviors (Miller, Galanter & Pribaum, 1960; Powers 1973; Carver Scheier 1981, 1990) and leads to cognitions of uncertainty and fear. According to Sullivan, Tripp & Calano (1997): “Behavior follows from the perception that response will not produce desired outcomes.” Achievement of the desired state enhances our sense of control, increases self efficacy and fosters motivation and hope. Outcome expectancy also mediates behavior. Positive attributional style creates positive expectancies, positive self efficacy and reduces depression (Sullivan, Tripp & Calano, 1997) whereas our mind’s attempt to bridge this divide creates negative affect (Carver & Scheier, 1990). Minimizing the divide between our current state and our desired state can be achieved in many ways –
a) we may acquire new skills to achieve our desired state,
b) we may redefine our goals to make them achievable or
c) we may even change our perception of stress.
If the gap between what we have and what we want cannot be minimized, the mind is compelled to dwell on the difference, which in turn creates a pattern of ongoing rumination and anxiety (Martin & Tesser, 1996). When the mind is trained to redefine desired states that are congruent with our current reality and are achievable, the disengagement from the old, unrealistic desires and achievement of new desires then creates a sense of well being, reduces depression and anxiety (In Bishop et al, 2004). |
