Mindfulness Thesis Statement

Rhetorical Analysis- First Draft

Mindfulness Would be Good,If it wasn't so Selfish

Mindfulness. There are many definitions and versions of this trend in modern day society.

Mindfulness would be good for you, if it weren't so selfish, is an article written by Thomas Joiner, who is a University of Texas, Austin alumni, A Distinguished Professor of Psychology and Director at FSU Psychology Clinic. The Washington post.com published this article on August 25, 2017.

The Current Research Conducted at Dr. Joiners clinic is as follows-

‘Further refinement and empirical tests of the interpersonal theory of suicidal behavior; understanding and preventing suicidal behavior across multiple setting, including military and first-responders. Dr. Joiner

Self Help groups could fall into this category as well. It may also be intended towards those that feel like mindfulness is a cure to mental health ailments.

My thesis statement: Joiner wants to shed light on the alternate side of mindfulness. A darker trend in today's society. One in which may actually have the exact opposite effect on us. “How a self help trend warped a good idea”.

Mindfulness has captured the attention of all of us whether we like it or not. And as Dr. Joiner leaned more into this research , he ‘was dismayed when mindfulness began to encroach on my field: psychology, and specifically the treatment of suicidal behavior.’ This is a field in which he is well versed and immersed in. This shows a bit of Ethos.

This article brings to light the darker side of self help/self care/mindfulness. Joiner wants the reader to have an awareness of the most current trend in mindfulness. He warns of the harm that can come to those with mental health issues like depression if they utilize mindfulness and self help in lieu of actual medication. He delves deep to look at this from a cultural aspect and how the culture can become promoted as a cure

Joiner doesn't want to negate that mindfulness can have some sort of positive effect- ‘I don’t mean to suggest that we should thoroughly dismiss the potential of mindfulness. Some reputable studies have shown that mindfulness training can reduce mind wandering and improve cognitive functioning, as measured through GRE scores.’,’ and briefly suggests that , if done properly and accompanying other medical standards , the act of mindfulness can have some benefits. He definitely does not hold tight to the idea that it can cure anything, solely. He does also mention -’self-care in the sense of adequate sleep and nutrition is eminently sensible. But it seems that the most ardent fans of self-compassion focus on things like relaxing vacations, restorative massages and rejuvenating skin-care regimens. This preoccupation gives the impression that “self-compassion” is code”. And note that these pleasant activities are daily things that should be allotted to