Katrin Micklitz

DPhil in Evidence-Based Health Care

Thesis

Mindfulness-based programs in the workplace: A realist review and evaluation of what works, why, under what circumstances and in what respects

Research abstract

Workplace related stress and burnout represent a major health issue in many high-income countries. Mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) are increasingly being used to address this problem. Studies and reviews suggest that workplace MBPs have the potential to reduce employee stress and burnout while enhancing performance and wellbeing. However, the evidence is based on a great heterogeneity of intervention types, target groups, and outcome measures, making generalizations difficult. Moreover, occupational MBPs are complex, involving a series of decision makers for implementation; they are embedded in organizational structures and cultures, run over a period of time, consist of multiple components, and involve human agency. So while current available evidence is positive, more research is needed in order to implement it large scale. Specifically, a better understanding of the causal mechanisms in MBPs and the particular contexts in which they are effective will allow us design and target workplace MBPs for maximum efficacy and sustainability. 

Supervisor(s)

Dr Geoff Wong, Dr Jeremy Howick

Biography

I started my DPhil in fall 2017 after having completed an MSt (Distinction) in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy at the Oxford Mindfulness Centre in 2014. My professional background includes over 15 years of experience as international leadership consultant. Together with two colleagues, we have founded the non-profit organization Institute for Mindfulness (Switzerland), where we develop and facilitate mindfulness-based interventions for companies. With a background in humanities (History of Art, Cultural Studies) I have always enjoyed working across disciplines. 

I am based in Berlin (Germany) and affiliated with Kellogg College. 

Research interests

Realist review, realist evaluation, mindfulness, health and wellbeing at work