Cognitive self-control factors in EMG biofeedback

Abstract

This study investigated the efficacy of manipulation of cognitive self-control expectancy in EMG biofeedback training. It was predicted that a treatment procedure, which includes a positive-cognitive stage that establishes and reinforces a positive self-control belief system and also includes a training stage in EMG biofeedback, will be more effective in achieving a reduction in EMG activity than a treatment procedure which includes a negative-cognitive stage and which also includes ambiguous features prior to training and a treatment approach solely concerned with training. The study consisted of four groups with 10 subjects in each. In one group, expectation for inner control ability was created prior to actual training in reducing EMG activity. In the second group, expectation for negative self-control ability was created prior to EMG training. The third group only underwent the actual training in EMG. The fourth group served as a control group. The results show that the positive-cognitive self-control group was significantly more effective in reducing muscle activity than the other groups.

Neurofeedback in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder – different models, different ways of application

“…Active control conditions may be preferable (e.g., computerized attention training, EMG biofeedback training including a feedback of artifacts derived from the EEG; Heinrich et al, 2007 ; Holtmann et al, 2014 ; Maurizio et al, 2014 ), paralleled with respect to the setting and the demands upon the participants as well as to the expectations and attributions. In addition, basic (“unspecific”) factors (e.g., expectations) can either be controlled for by using appropriate questionnaires ( Kotchoubey et al, 2001 ; Gevensleben et al, 2009a ) or could be systematically manipulated via instructions to assess their influence on treatment outcome ( Goldberg et al, 1982 ; Holroyd et al, 1984 ).…”

The effect of instructions on cognitive strategies and performance in biofeedback

“…The more rapid learning may result from existing skills (LaCroix, 1981) and/or from increased expectancy for success (Goldberg et al, 1982). Subjects learn more rapidly when given instructions which emphasize that they already have the necessary skills to accomplish a biofeedback task.…”

Cognitive Changes of Migraineurs Receiving Biofeedback Training

“…Recently however, interest in the role of cognitions within conditioning techniques has been growing. 4 Goldberg et al 10 reported that learning to control EMG biofeedback could be significantly accelerated by manipulating expectations of self-control and reinforcing positive achievements of control during training sessions. Holroyd et al 8 manipulated performance feedback and found that individuals who were led to believe they were highly successful at the task increased self-efficacy and became more internal in their beliefs of headache locus of control than those who believed they were performing only moderately well.…”