The Development and Evaluation of a Novel Group-based Mahāyāna Buddhist Intervention, Awareness Training Program

Abstract

Over the past decades, mindfulness-based interventions have been verified to be effective in reducing stress and related problems. However, there is growing concern that some of the mindfulness-based interventions have been developed in an “out of context” manner. Awareness Training Program (ATP), which is doctrinally aligned with the Saṃdhinirmocana Sūtra so that its theory and praxis are coherent, was formulated by Venerable Sik Hin Hung and the presenter in response to this growing concern and the immense needs of the non-clinical adults with stress problems, particularly in Hong Kong. The ATP aims to enhance a person’s ability to deal with suffering by developing one’s compassion and the wisdom of nonattachment, which are two of Mahāyāna Buddhist fundamental practices. This presentation will outline why “Mahāyāna Buddhist teaching”, “textually aligned” and “coherent theory and praxis” are regarded as important components when formulating a Buddhist-based intervention. The theoretical foundations of ATP as well as its empirical findings will also be presented.