Frontiers in Psychology (Jul 2015)

Time course of conflict processing modulated by brief meditation training

  • Yaxin eFan,
  • Yi-Yuan eTang,
  • Rongxiang eTang,
  • Michael ePosner

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00911
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 6

Abstract

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Resolving conflict is a pivotal self-control ability for human adaptation and survival. Although some studies reported meditation may affect conflict resolution, the neural mechanisms are poorly understood. We conducted a fully randomized 5 hours trial of one form of mindfulness meditation - Integrative Body-Mind Training (IBMT) in comparison to a relaxation training control. During the Stroop word-color task, IBMT group produced faster resolution of conflict, a smaller N2 and an earlier and larger P3 component of the event-related brain potentials (ERPs). These results indicate that brief meditation training induces a brain state that improves the resolution of conflict.

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