Content Attribution

“Based on the teachings of [Teacher Name]. Adapted by G Ross Clark.”

Content Attribution; several of my mindfulness teachers have given me permission to use their content, example Tara Brach, and several others. How can the attribution be witten? I have used ‘Source; Tara Brach. Adapted by G Ross Clark. Is this ok? If not what are other ways attribution can be given?

Your proposed attribution, “Source: Tara Brach. Adapted by G Ross Clark,” is generally clear and professional, but it can be refined to be more accurate and consistent with publishing best practices, especially in an educational context.

Here’s a breakdown of whether it’s okay and alternative ways to present the attribution.

1. Assessment of Your Proposed Attribution

Proposed Attribution	Assessment	Reason for Refinement
“Source: Tara Brach. Adapted by G Ross Clark.”	Generally Okay, but Imprecise.	It clearly names the original creator and your role. However, the term “Source” is vague. The format lacks specific details (e.g., date, original title) that are standard for academic or professional attribution.

2. Best Practice Attribution Formats

The best way to write the attribution depends on what kind of content you are using (a specific practice, a quote, or an entire curriculum structure) and the nature of the permission granted.

A. For Specific, Direct Practices or Quotes

Use a format that acknowledges the original work and cites the specific title/source where possible.

Format 1: Simple Citation (Best for a specific meditation or phrase)

“Adapted from the teachings of Tara Brach.”
Format 2: Explicit Original Source

“Based on the ‘Rain’ meditation technique developed by Tara Brach.” —OR— “Quote attributed to Tara Brach, used with permission.”
Format 3: Acknowledgment in Introductory Text

“In this lesson, we will be exploring the power of self-compassion, using a framework adapted from the work of Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer (Mindful Self-Compassion).”

B. For Modified Content or Curriculum Structure

If you have taken a foundational teaching (like a standard 8-week MBSR model or a self-compassion concept) and customized it, the term “Adapted” is correct, but the context should be clear.

Format 4: The Pedagogical Acknowledgment (Formal)

“This lesson’s structure and core concepts are adapted by G Ross Clark from the pioneering work of Tara Brach, PhD.” Use this when you are borrowing the essence or flow of an idea.
Format 5: The “Informed By” Statement (For broad influence)

“Content and practices throughout this course are heavily informed by the traditions of Jon Kabat-Zinn, the Mindful Self-Compassion program, and the insights of teachers including Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield.” Use this in your general course introduction or FAQ page.

C. The Required Permission (Crucial Step)

Before finalizing any attribution, ensure your statement aligns with the specific permissions granted by your teachers.

Element	Action to Take
Verify Specifics	Ask the teacher (or their organization) if they require a specific wording, a copyright notice ( $c ◯$ ), or a link back to their website.
Understand “Permission”	“Permission to use” usually means you can adapt their work, but not claim the original concepts or phrases as entirely your own. Your attribution must reflect this.
Document It	Keep a record of the email or written document where permission was granted.

Final Recommendation:

Use “Based on the teachings of [Teacher Name]. Adapted by G Ross Clark.” It is concise, respectful, and clearly defines both the source of the foundational concept and your contribution as the course designer.