A Comparison of Frontalis EMG Feedback Training and Progressive Relaxation in the Treatment of Chronic Anxiety

Two groups (N = 26) of patients with chronic anxiety were compared in their response to different forms of relaxation therapy. One group received 16 sessions of frontalis EMG and the other 16 sessions of progressive relaxation. Although EMG feedback was much superior in reducing frontalis EMG activity this treatment was no more effective than progressive relaxation in reducing symptoms of anxiety. Few patients in each group showed more than marginal improvement.