Models of Meditation

Experiential aspects of the more common forms of meditation, described in the context of some research findings. Various theoretical models of meditation are reviewed. Meditation is also discussed in terms of behavioural, psychoanalytical and personal construct perspectives. It is concluded that whereas no simple or singular conceptualisation of meditation is adequate, personal construct theory has most to offer in describing meditation phenomena. The objectives of the various meditation techniques appear to be rather similar, i.e., to achieve insight into the workings of the mind, selfmastery, and ultimately to transcend the ego. However, meditation experiences may vary considerably within and between individuals.