Meditative State Scale (MSS): Psychometric Validation and Exploration of Gamma-Band Correlates

Abstract Objectives The present research was intended to validate a new psychometric instrument—the Meditative State Scale (MSS)—designed from novel approach that integrates knowledge the foundational pillars in which meditation practices were grounded with recent neuroscientific and psychological findings. Methods divided into two studies. Study 1 ( n = 241) comprised development validation of MSS. Its factor structure evaluated through conduction exploratory confirmatory analyses. Measurement invariance MSS across groups naïve experienced meditators also tested. A selection additional instruments used further assess its convergent discriminant validity. In study 2, validity investigated an experimental design 12) electroencephalographic (EEG) signal recorded while participants meditating. Next, correlations between EEG activity reported scores explored. Results established reliability MSS, supporting three-factor encompassing first “transcendence,” second “difficulties,” third “mental quietening.” shows configural, metric, partial scalar beginners meditators. we found associations changes gamma parietal occipital areas engaging practice. Conclusions We expect can contribute synergistically explore meditative states, combining reliable measures state neurophysiological data. Thus, it may be possible reach better understanding complex mechanisms are involved practice more rigorous application meditation-based programs research, educational, clinical contexts.