"Mindfulness in the Military: A Weaponization of Buddhism" by Sofia Portugal
 

Mindfulness in the Military: A Weaponization of Buddhism

Level of Education of Students Involved

Undergraduate

Faculty Sponsor

Chris Dabbs

College

College of Arts & Sciences (CAS)

Discipline(s)

Religion, Psychology

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 4-24-2025

Abstract

Buddhism has long been linked to peace, mindfulness, and self-awareness, yet its philosophies have increasingly been used in military settings. This paper explores the weaponization of Buddhist practices in psychotherapy, particularly in the military, where militarized forms of mindfulness-based stress reduction therapy (MBSR) are used to strengthen soldiers' mental resilience and combat readiness. While MBSR has been recognized for its therapeutic benefits, its use in the military raises ethical concerns about whether religious practices are being repurposed in secular settings that go against their original purpose. Through a review of existing research, this paper examines how Buddhist principles—traditionally meant to thrive through the acceptance of suffering—are instead used to help soldiers handle stress, stay focused, and perform better under pressure during active duty. This paper outlines the basic principles of Buddhism, the differences between psychotherapy mindfulness and Buddhist mindfulness, and the ethical concerns of using a secularized form of mindfulness in settings like the military. The discussion draws from Buddhist ethics, military psychology, and modern critiques of mindfulness. Ultimately, this review aims to reveal the reconfiguration of spiritual traditions in psychotherapy and military environments and questions whether these adaptations stay true to Buddhism’s core values or simply become tools for improving military strategy. Future use of secular mindfulness, especially in military settings, should be approached with greater cultural awareness and ethical consideration, ensuring that these practices are not stripped of their historical and moral contexts but are instead applied in ways that respect their origins and support mental wellbeing.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Last year, I traveled to Thailand with some faculty and students of Valpo's CONHP. This is where I developed an interest in Buddhism and solidified my decision to pursue occupational therapy. At that time, I was also taking a psychology course on religion and spirituality with Dr. Dabbs. These experiences inspired me to apply for the Nelson scholarship in hopes of having the opportunity to learn more about Buddhism in psychology.

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