Toward a mindful psychological science: Theory and application

It is argued that, toward mitigating the "centrifugal forces" (Altman, 1987 ) currently splintering the field of psychology, Langer's (1989, 1997) theo ry of mindfulness has the potential to become a unifying framework for the field of psychological science. Toward this end, this article demonstrates the ways in which Langer's work, usually associated with the subfield of so cial psychology, (a) constitutes a grand theory that advances contemporary developmental theory( (b) has relevance for other basic and applied subfiel ds of psychology (e.g., cognitive, educational, organizational, clinical); and (c) offers practical directives for conceptualizing and treating such s ocial issues as development and remediation of prejudice and discrimination ; satisfaction and well-being of adoptive and foster families; and promotio n of automobile safety across the lifespan (i.e., the translation of mindle ss experience into more mindful action).