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Perceived changes associated with autogenic training for anxiety: a grounded theory study
Levent Yurdakul1, Sue Holttum, Ann Bowden
1South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK.
Psychology and Psychotherapy
|May 23, 2009
Summary
Autogenic training (AT) helps anxiety by teaching clients to induce calm. Key factors for change include group learning, consistent practice, and enhanced well-being, leading to clearer thinking and reduced worry.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Mind-Body Interventions
Background:
- Autogenic training (AT) is a behavioral intervention typically delivered over 8-9 sessions.
- Clients learn mental formulae for relaxation, emotional expression, and personal change.
- Existing models of AT primarily focus on neuro-physiology, not psychological mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop the first psychological model of Autogenic Training's mechanisms.
- To explore client perceptions of the change process in AT.
- To understand how AT supports positive change and well-being.
Main Methods:
- An abbreviated grounded theory approach was employed.
- Retrospective in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 women who completed group AT for anxiety.
- A preliminary model of change was developed based on interview data.
Main Results:
- Salient factors included group learning, the core AT exercises, and challenges with practice.
- Regular practice integrated into daily life was crucial for success.
- Participants reported enhanced well-being, improved coping, reduced worrying, and clearer thinking.
Conclusions:
- Despite a small, self-selected sample, theoretical generalizations about the change process are possible.
- The cognitive changes observed have implications for anxiety treatment approaches.
- AT's impact on cognitive processes warrants further investigation, especially given its non-specific focus on challenging negative cognitions.
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