A randomized controlled trial of an app-delivered mindfulness program among university employees: effects on stress and work-related outcomes
International Journal of Workplace Health Management
ISSN: 1753-8351
Article publication date: 22 February 2021
Issue publication date: 16 March 2021
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impact on stress and work-related outcomes of an app-delivered mindfulness-based program (MBP; Headspace®) offered to employees in a UK higher education (HE) institution.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a randomized waitlist control trial design, participants were randomly allocated to be offered a mindfulness-based program (MBP) immediately for 2 months or after a waiting list period of 2 months (WLC). Data were analyzed using Intention to Treat (ITT; MBP n = 62; WLC n = 63); with supplementary analysis restricting to those who completed all measures; (MBP n = 45; WLC n = 56) and then further restricting the MBP group to those who completed at least foundation level 1 of the app; (MBP n = 31; WLC n = 56).
Findings
The ITT analysis showed significant increases in several aspects of mindfulness and a significant reduction in perceived stress but no significant effects for work-related outcomes. Analysis restricted to MBP participants who completed the app foundation course showed a similar pattern but in addition showed significant increases in work-life balance and the emotional aspect of job engagement.
Practical implications
The offer of the Headspace® app in the HE sector may result in reduced perceived stress. If improvements in work-related outcomes are also to be seen, then users need to be encouraged to complete a minimum level of practice.
Originality/value
Effect size estimates for stress and work-related outcomes of an app-delivered MBP contribute to the evolving picture of MBPs in the workplace.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank participants for their time. They would also like to thank Headspace® who provided the facility for the university to give one free subscription to study participants. Headspace® did not fund any members of the research team, nor were they involved in the design of the study, data collection, data analysis or write up of the paper. They did provide the meta data from the app usage (date, time and duration of completed sessions) and the communication platform used (iOS, Android, Desktop).
Citation
Rich, R.M., Ogden, J. and Morison, L. (2021), "A randomized controlled trial of an app-delivered mindfulness program among university employees: effects on stress and work-related outcomes", International Journal of Workplace Health Management, Vol. 14 No. 2, pp. 201-216. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJWHM-04-2020-0046
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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