CHALO, Paulo; PEREIRA, Anabela; SANCHO, Luís    MATEUS, Helena. Biofeedback and anxiety in higher education: comparison of two brief intervention programs. []. , 17, 1, pp.60-66. ISSN 1645-0086.  https://doi.org/10.15309/16psd170109.

This study follows Biofeedback (BFB) efficacy in higher education student’s levels of anxiety research. Looking for easy access, short duration programs, we tried to compare two brief programs, with 5 and 8 sessions of BFB. 32 1st year students with high State-Trait Anxiety Index (STAI-Y2) values. Using Biofeedback 2000 x-pert, one group (n=11) underwent 8 sessions, another (n=9) did 5 and a third group (n=12) underwent no intervention. Results were compared at the end. A significant reduction of STAI Y-2 values was observed on both BFB groups (p=0.05 in the 5 session group, p=0.003 in the 8 session one). Significant differences were also found between the control group and the 8 BFB session group (p=0.001). These results suggest the relevance of using brief BFB programs in dealing with anxiety in Higher Education, albeit with some care considering the 5 session program. Future studies, especially in the Portuguese population, are necessary to strengthen these programs’ efficacy. Having a good cost/efficacy relationship, BFB programs appear as a valid option for intervention in anxiety.

: Biofeedback; SCL; Anxiety; Higher Education.

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