Mindfulness Approach

Chapter 16 Summary:

The mindfulness approach is divided into two different therapy styles: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Both are rooted within cognitive behavioral therapy. Steven Hayes is the originator of ACT. There are six specific processes in ACT, which define human functioning: acceptance, being present, cognitive defusion, self as perspective, values, and committed action. There is a heavy focus in ACT on inflexible thinking as the cause of psychological dysfunction. DBT was conceived by Marsha Linehan and it was meant for very specific psychological problems. Its main focus is for those with borderline personality disorder but also those who display parasuicidal behavior. DBT is broken in to two separate categories of primary and secondary targets. Primary targets are hazardous behaviors such suicide or self-harm. Secondary targets are life skills such as problem solving, emotional regulation, and self-validation. DBT typically involves reviewing these categories and addressing the primary targets first.

 How it applies:

Working in residence life I have encountered various mental health problems that I have had to address with students. I have not encountered a student with borderline personality disorder, but I do know of professionals who have and it is a real possibility. While I do not think I will ever be completely certified to aid someone with borderline personality, knowing that things can be placed in two categories is helpful to know. I also found some of the processes of ACT to be applicable, specifically the first one of acceptance. Students are often struggling because no one accepts them as they are and being someone who does accept them goes a long way.