Abstract
Evidence suggests that mindfulness-based interventions may mitigate occupational burnout. This study investigates whether the weekly frequency of mindfulness meditation sessions is associated with salivary cortisol levels (a physiological biomarker of chronic stress) in emergency room physicians.
Methods: We gathered data from a sample of 350 emergency room physicians across five major trauma centers. Self-reported meditation logs were collected alongside salivary cortisol samples taken at consistent times during shift rotations.
Findings: A negative correlation was found between the weekly frequency of mindfulness sessions and mean salivary cortisol levels. This relationship was particularly pronounced in junior doctors compared to senior consultants.
Interpretation: These findings suggest a potential role for mindfulness practices in reducing physiological stress markers among frontline medical staff. This could support the integration of mindfulness programs within clinical wellness schemes.
Outline one limitation of using a correlational design in this study.
644 exam-style questions on OCR A Level Psychology Research methods and techniques. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.