| This paper explores the conceptual and structural constructs of mindfulness and mentalization. The literature behind both is vast, and the relationship between the two is complex. This paper elucidates the necessary components and draws out relevant implications for how mindfulness and mentalization differ and overlap, as well as how these realities can lead to further research and utilization of mentalization within clinical practice. First, mentalization theory is summarized, followed by a brief literature review to demonstrate its clinical effectiveness. The same is done with mindfulness theory and its clinical application. Next, both the similarities and differences between mindfulness and mentalization are elaborated to demonstrate how they interact on both structural and theoretical levels. Finally, given the larger body of literature on mindfulness, the author utilizes the previously discussed similarities to show why mentalization theory and techniques can and should be integrated into a mindfulness frame of treatment. |
