How Do College Student-Athletes’ Understanding and Expectations of Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Change Through an Intervention?

While mindfulness-based interventions are shown to enhance performance and well-being, little is known about how athletes perceive these concepts. Some researchers argue that blending Eastern mindfulness with Western psychology may limit mindfulness-based interventions’ effectiveness. This study explores U.S. college athletes’ expectations and understanding of mindfulness and self-compassion and how these evolve through a 7-week mindfulness-based intervention. Interviews were conducted before ( n = 26) and after ( n = 16) the intervention, and data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results revealed multiple levels of change, suggesting that expectations may influence outcomes and limited understanding may have restricted benefits. Findings also indicate that ambiguity from combining Eastern and Western approaches may contribute to confusion among athletes. Notably, a deeper understanding of mindfulness and self-compassion appeared linked to perceived improvements in mental efficiency and mindset. These insights underscore the importance of addressing athletes’ conceptualizations of mindfulness and self-compassion to optimize intervention outcomes.