Journal of Community Service and Empowerment
Vol. 7 No. 2 (2026): August

A Pilot Study of Mindfulness Training for Internalizing Problems among Boarding School Adolescents

Nandy Agustin Syakarofath (Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang, Jl. Raya Tlogomas No. 246, Kota Malang, East Java 65144, Indonesia)
Aisyah Nabilah Ardelia (Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang, Jl. Raya Tlogomas No. 246, Kota Malang, East Java 65144, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
02 Aug 2026

Abstract

Adolescence is a complex transition period prone to various emotional and behavioral problems, particularly for those in boarding school environments characterized by high demands and social pressures. This study explored the application of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training to address internalizing problems among boarding school adolescents. Out of 82 adolescents surveyed, 14 students identified with internalizing problems via the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) participated in the intervention. Data were collected through pre-test and post-test scores and analyzed using descriptive statistics and a paired sample t-test. The results showed a descriptive decrease in internalizing symptoms; however, the change was statistically insignificant due to a very small effect size. These findings highlight significant implementation challenges, suggesting that while mindfulness shows potential in helping adolescents recognize and manage emotions, its integration within a boarding school setting faces constraints. To achieve more consistent and significant psychological benefits, future interventions should prioritize longer training durations, more ideal measurement intervals, and adjustments to the boarding school's rigorous schedule.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jcse

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences Other

Description

This journal publishes articles on community service and empowerment results that are problem-solving, comprehensive, meaningful, and sustainable, with clear goals. Various community service and empowerment activities must have novelty (have innovation and creativity), so that they do not just ...