-IBIS-1.5.0-
rx
guidelines (Mind/Body)
biofeedback
psychospiritual approaches
definition
biofeedback:
Biofeedback is a technique by which one can learn conscious control of biological processes. This is accomplished by feeding information about the process obtained from a measuring instrument back to the client. Once the instrument use is explained, a practitioner is not necessary (though a good trainer is crucial to initial learning) since the client discovers how to sense and gain control of the subtle mind/body processes s/he is learning to effect. The true key to biofeedback training is recognizing those moments when the feedback instrument is signaling the presence of the desired state, and then learning how to prolong those moments by careful manipulation of thoughts and feelings. Progress is made as one discovers which strategy leads to increasing rewards, in the form of short latency, i.e. of longer bursts of feedback eliciting the desired state.
Instruments used:
EMG: Electromyography is the measurement of the electrical impulses that control muscle contraction. The frontalis muscle is usually used when teaching a relaxation response. Most machines have both visual and auditory feedback signals.
BSR: Basal skin resistance
GSR: Galvanic skin response measures microfluctuations in BSR. Both BSR and GSR are used in monitoring systems which detect emotional responses, nervousness (basis of lie detector tests), and in relaxation training.
EEG: Electroencephalograph measures the brain's electrical signals. Beta training (sometimes with theta training) is used to improve attention span; alpha training is used to teach relaxation and meditation, slow-alpha (and high-theta) is associated with ESP; theta training is associated with the hypnagogic state and is being experimented with as a tool to enhance creativity.
Dr. Melvyn Werbach, MD, director of the Biofeedback Medical Clinics in California, states: 'It takes time and effort, practice and a good trainer. Biofeedback trainers give support and enhance motivation, manage training exercises, and have to be psychologically sensitive.' Success depends mostly on the type of ailment, the degree of concentration the client invests in the training, and the personal motivation. It may not be effective if there are serious psychological limitations, or if severe pain prevents adequate concentration. Most authorities suggest that beginners arrange one 45 minute session per week, with practice sessions at home twice a day for 20 minutes, for 2-4 weeks. Werbach's clinics do a basic series of 10 sessions, in which time about 2/3 show definite improvement.
(Bliss, (John Alle), p. 83-85)
(Bauman, (Tim Scully), p. 201-204)
see:
behavior modification techniques
footnotes