The Assessment of Practice Quality–Mindfulness (PQ-M): Translation and Psychometric Properties in Chinese Population

The practice quality of mindfulness is a key factor associated with the effects of mindfulness interventions, and it can be assessed using the Practice Quality–Mindfulness (PQ-M) questionnaire. The English-version PQ-M has been validated in Western countries. This study aimed to translate the PQ-M into Chinese and examine its cross-cultural validation.

Study 1 involved 341 participants who completed the PQ-M after a brief mindfulness practice. The scale’s structure was determined using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Study 2, a longitudinal study, included 180 participants who attended a 2-week mindfulness training course. Daily PQ-M assessments were conducted alongside measures of the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) both at pre- and post-intervention. Convergent and predictive validities were assessed using Pearson’s r-test and linear mixed models (LMMs).

The 2-factor structure (Attention and Receptivity) of the Chinese-version PQ-M was verified through Study 1. Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega of the subscales were above 0.70. In Study 2, significant positive correlations were found between Attention and all FFMQ subscales (r = 0.18 to 0.33, p < 0.05), except Nonjudging, whereas Receptivity correlated significantly only with Nonjudging (r = 0.22 to 0.31, p < 0.05). LMM demonstrated the fixed effects of Attention and Receptivity on FFMQ and DASS scores throughout the intervention.

The Chinese-version PQ-M demonstrates reliability and validity. This study highlights the correlation between improvements in mindfulness and psychological health during mindfulness interventions and the quality of mindfulness practice.