Mindfulness Practices among Rural College Students in the US: Perceptions and Barriers

For college students, mindfulness may capture and promote innate strengths and abilities, and potentially improve student academic success, enhance university performance, and increase graduation rates. However, these practices may not be equally accessible based on geographic location and culture. The purpose of this exploratory, cross-sectional survey was to assess students’ perceptions of, use and barriers to mindfulness practices. A total of 533 students enrolled in a public college located in rural North Carolina participated in an online study that examined the interest in contemplative practices and perceptions about potential benefits. Results of this survey indicated that the majority of respondents thought that practices associated with contemplative pedagogy were beneficial, and these students would like to have increased opportunity to engage in mindful practices while pursuing their studies.