The effect of Transcendental Meditation on self-esteem, self-efficacy, and gratitude, for increasing empowerment of female youth in Uganda


Author: Leslee Goldstein1, Andra Marie Smith2, Daniela Romagnoli3, Elissa Katergi2

Affiliation: <sup>1</sup> Center for Social Emotional Health and Consciousness, Maharishi International University, Fairfield, Iowa, USA.

<sup>2</sup> School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.

<sup>3</sup> University Workforce Education and Development, College of Education, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA.
Conference/Journal: Health Care Women Int
Date published: 2024 Jul 9
Other:
  Pages: 1-34   ,  Special Notes: doi: 10.1080/07399332.2024.2358789.   ,  Word Count: 146  
    This longitudinal study with female youth in the slums of Kampala, Uganda (n = 130), explored the impact of the Transcendental Meditation® (TM®) technique on self-esteem, the primary outcome measure, and self-efficacy, gratitude, hope, tiredness, and resilience as secondary outcomes. Quality-of-life behaviors were also assessed, including excessive alcohol use. After baseline testing participants learned TM over five consecutive days. Participants practiced TM at home for 20 min twice a day and attended two follow-up sessions. Post-testing occurred at five months. Significant improvements in self-esteem (p < .001), self-efficacy (p < .001), gratitude (p < .001), and tiredness (p = .05) were found. A decrease in excessive alcohol use was also observed (p = .02). At eight months a short answer questionnaire showed improved physical health, decreased stress and anxiety levels, and improved relationships in the family and community. Our findings have important implications for enhancing the well-being and empowerment of these vulnerable female youth.





PMID: 38980139 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2024.2358789