Abstract
The purpose of the study was to compare the effectiveness of frontalis (forehead) electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback, hypnosis, and the two combined for training relaxation. Seventy-two students were randomly assigned to one of six groups: 1) hypnosis; 2) biofeedback; 3) control; 4) hypnosis combined with biofeedback; 5) hypnosis plus control; and (6) biofeedback plus control. Baseline data, or pre-measures, were recorded for four one-minute intervals. Following baseline all subjects received one 50 minute training session. Post-measures of four one-minute intervals were recorded during the last four minutes of the session. Results showed that hypnosis combined with biofeedback produced the greatest relaxation as measured by a reduction in frontalis muscle tension. Biofeedback also resulted in a significant reduction in frontalis muscle tension. Hypnosis did not produce a significant reduction in frontalis muscle tension. The results are discussed in terms of the efficiency of combining hypnosis with biofeedback.
Cleveland, Charles Tracy (1981). A comparison of hypnosis, frontalis EMG biofeedback, and the two combined for training relaxation. Doctoral dissertation, Texas A&M University. Texas A&M University. Libraries. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /DISSERTATIONS -100730.