Effects of hypnotherapy and relaxation training on mathematics achievement

Abstract

Volunteers (53) from an introductory algebra class were divided into four treatment groups--hypnotherapy (Hy), relaxation training (RT), active control (AC) (classical music) and inactive control (IC). Hypotheses tested were (1) there is no difference among groups on post treatment mean final algebra examination scores, post treatment mean state anxiety as measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Form X-1 and post treatment mean trait anxiety as measured by the STAI Form X-2; (2) there is no correlation between hypnotic susceptibility and post treatment final algebra examination scores, post treatment state anxiety as measured by the STAI, Form X-1 and post treatment trait anxiety as measured by the STAI, Form X-2; and (3) there is no interaction between sex and treatment for post treatment final algebra examination scores, post treatments state anxiety as measured by the STAI, Form X-1, and post treatment trait anxiety as measured by the STAI, Form X-2. The Hy, RT and AC groups met once each week for 9 weeks. Treatment was taped and of approximately 30 minutes duration. Each treatment session was followed by one hour of group tutoring. The IC group received neither treatment nor tutoring, but gave permission for the release of their algebra final examination scores. ...