EMG biofeedback applicability for differing personality types

Abstract

Divided thirty-two male alcoholics into two groups on the basis of their MMPI profile. Group 1 consisted of Ss determined to be tense and anxious, while Group 2 included a more heterogeneous sample of personality types. Eight Ss from each group received 14 days of progressive relaxation training and EMG biofeedback; the remainder received control sessions of taped music and EMG monitoring. Group 1 experimental S achieved greater levels of relaxation than either their matched controls or Group 2 Ss. POMS scores revealed a significant difference over time for all Ss in the direction of improved mood states. No significant between-groups difference was found. Generally, these results suggest the following: (1) patients may be selected credibly for relaxation-biofeedback treatment by use of the MMPI; (2) patients who exhibit significant anxiety and tension may achieve lower levels of tension during training than patients with lower levels of pretreatment anxiety.