Mindfulness & Brain Scans Quiz

What is the primary psychological concept investigated in Hölzel et al. (2011)?

• Classical conditioning

• Neuroplasticity

• Social identity theory

• Cognitive dissonance

Which brain region showed a significant increase in gray matter density after the MBSR program?

• Amygdala

• Left hippocampus

• Frontal lobe

• Brainstem

True or False: The study used a cross-sectional design.

What was the control group’s activity during the study?

• Practiced meditation daily

• Received no intervention (waiting list)

• Completed alternative stress-reduction exercises

• Took medication for stress

How was mindfulness measured in the study?

• MRI scans only

• Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ)

• Blood tests

• Observational interviews

Which technique was used to analyze gray matter changes in the brain?

• EEG

• Voxel-based morphometry (VBM)

• PET scans

• fMRI

Identify one weakness of using a passive control group in this study.

Which facet of mindfulness did not show significant improvement post-MBSR?

• Observing

• Non-judging

• Describing

• Non-reactivity

Explain one real-world application of the study’s findings.

How does the study support the nature-nurture debate?

• Shows brain changes are purely genetic (nature)

• Demonstrates neuroplasticity (nurture)

• Proves mindfulness is innate

• Rejects environmental influences