eneral

sychology

Biofeedback consists of providing information to individuals about their ongoing physiological processes (e.g., heart rate, brain-wave activity). The information is displayed to the client so that moment-to-moment changes in these processes can be monitored. Several different biofeedback procedures can be distinguished, depending upon precisely what physiological processes are monitored and how feedback is administered (see Yates, 1980).

Many physiological processes are directly involved in problems brought for treatment, including hypertension, headaches, epileptic seizures, muscle spasms, cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat), and anxiety. Generally, biofeedback provides direct ongoing and immediate information to clients about various physiological processes. By providing feedback, the goal is to produce a change in the specific response focused upon.

Epstein, Hersen, and Hemphill (1974) used biofeedback to control tension headaches of a 39-year-old male who had a 16-year history of severe headaches. A neurological examination failed to reveal organic causes of the headaches. Apart from this case, research has shown that tension headaches often are associated with contractions of the frontalis (forehead) muscle. Hence, in this case, muscle relaxation of the frontalis was focused upon. To provide feedback, the client was attached to an electromyograph, which measured muscle tension by electrodes placed above his eyebrows. Feedback consisted of playing music to the client (recordings of his favorite music) whenever muscle tension was below a specified criterion. The client was instructed that the music was played whenever low levels of tension occurred and that he was to try to keep the music on as much as possible.

Biofeedback reduced overall muscle tension. In addition, the client reported a decrease in headaches. To ensure that relaxation would be maintained when the client returned to his normal routine, he was trained to engage in relaxation exercises he could perform on his own after treatment. Up to seven months later, the client reported a low incidence of headaches.
 
 

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