Biofeedback

Question 1

How can muscular tension be measured?

Answer 1

Electromyogram (EMG)

Question 2

How can brain activity be measured?

Answer 2

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Question 3

What did Budzynski identify as the three main phases to biofeedback training?

Answer 3

1) Client learns to become aware of their physiological response and how it can be adjusted in a desired direction.

2) Client learns how to use various techniques to control their response

3) Control of response has to be transferred to everyday life, so client practices in stressful situations rather than in safety and comfort of therapy room.

Question 4

What type of conditioning does biofeedback training utilise?

Answer 4

Operant conditioning (praise from therapist is rewarding and reinforces client’s behaviour)

Question 5

Who conducted research into biofeedback?

Answer 5

Davis

Question 6

Who did Davis use in his EMG feedback study?

Answer 6

Women receiving treatment for breast cancer.

Question 7

What was the procedure used in Davis’ research into biofeedback?

Answer 7

There were thirteen 45-minute sessions over 8 weeks, during which patients learnt deep-breathing and relaxation techniques.

Question 8

What were the findings of Davis research into biofeedback?

Answer 8

After 8 months, urinary cortisol levels and self-reported anxiety were significantly lower than at the start of the study.

In control group, cortisol levels increased.

Researchers concluded that this was evidence of significant stabilisation of the HPA system by biofeedback.