Perceived positive and adverse effects of meditation practices

The utilization of meditation practices founded upon Buddhist philosophy is becoming increasingly prevalent. These practices are also employed in contemporary psychotherapy through various mindfulness-based programs. A review of the literature on the effects of meditation has revealed that various negative effects may occur. The present thesis examines the meditation experiences of adults residing in Turkey, the manner in which they perceive and report the positive or negative effects of meditation, and the demographic and personal history characteristics related to these effects. This study also aims to investigate the relationship between the presence of psychological issues and/or emotional challenges experienced during or immediately prior to the meditation period and the adverse effects of meditation. The study was conducted with 155 volunteer participants, aged between 20 and 66, who had engaged in meditation at least once. The data were collected utilizing the Demographic and Personal History Information Form, the Meditation Experience Information Form, and the Meditation-Related Negative Effects Scale. 53.5% of the survey respondents reported that they rarely, occasionally or regularly experienced negative effects related to meditation. As a result of the study, it was revealed that the negative effects of meditation differed significantly according to the presence of psychological problems and/or emotional difficulties during or immediately before the meditation period. The findings were discussed within the framework of existing literature and used to inform recommendations for future research and meditation practices.