Empowering change through gender-responsive programming: Exploring the effectiveness of inmate facilitated integrative mindfulness programming

• In Event: Bridging Work in the Community with Work in Academia

Abstract

Research suggests that mindfulness practices, such as yoga and meditation, can lead to neurological and physiological changes that may counter the impact of trauma, and promote health and well-being. The current study explores the impact of a trauma-informed mind-body curriculum for women as implemented by women inmate facilitators in a state prison. The Trauma Informed Mind Body (TIMBo) program was initially piloted in the women’s prison by non-profit organization yogaHOPE. After the success of the pilot program, yogaHOPE implemented a train-the-trainer model, certifying inmate facilitators. The current work explores the implementation of this model and examines the impact of the initial facilitation of the curriculum by inmates for the inmate population. Outcomes explore the impact of programming on a variety of physiological and psychological correlates of traumatic stress including measures of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and self-compassion. Changes to coping strategies are also explored. yogaHOPE strives to lead women toward empowerment and recovery by cultivating mindfulness through yoga, meditation, and non-judgmental self-inquiry. The current study explores the impact of these goals when programming is implemented in a peer to peer context within the prison setting.

Authors

• Danielle M. Rousseau, Boston University

• Elizabeth Jackson, Harvard School of Public Health