The Effects of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Emotional Regulation and Well-Being in At-Risk Youth: A Literature Review.

This literature review explores the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in supporting emotional regulation and psychological well-being among at-risk youth. Adolescents experiencing adversity, such as trauma, socioeconomic challenges, discrimination, or unstable home environments, are often at greater risk for emotional dysregulation and mental health difficulties. MBIs, which include practices such as meditation, breathing exercises, and yoga, have gained increasing attention for their potential to strengthen emotional awareness and support resilience. However, more research is needed to understand how these interventions work specifically for at-risk and underserved populations. Using a qualitative review of existing studies, this thesis examines common findings, benefits, challenges, and limitations within the current literature. It also considers how contextual factors, such as cultural background, accessibility, and implementation conditions, may influence intervention outcomes. The goal is to provide insight into how MBIs can be more effectively integrated into support strategies for at-risk youth and to offer direction for future research in this area.