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Negative transfer of heart rate control following biofeedback training: a partial replication
Biofeedback and Self-Regulation
|September 1, 1985
Summary
Voluntary control over heart rate (HR) was tested using biofeedback. Training to decrease HR impaired the ability to increase it, suggesting distinct voluntary control mechanisms for speeding and slowing heart rate.
Area of Science:
- Physiological psychology
- Cardiovascular regulation
- Biofeedback applications
Background:
- Voluntary control over autonomic functions, such as heart rate (HR), is a key area of research.
- Biofeedback training has shown potential in modifying physiological responses.
- Understanding the distinct capacities for voluntary heart rate acceleration and deceleration is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of unidirectional biofeedback training on the ability to voluntarily alter heart rate.
- To determine if training to decrease HR impacts the ability to increase HR, and vice versa.
- To explore the concept of distinct capacities for voluntary heart rate speeding and slowing.
Main Methods:
- Two groups of 10 male volunteers underwent biofeedback training.
- Group I received training to increase HR; Group D received training to decrease HR.
- Heart rate control was assessed before and after 5 and 10 training trials.
Main Results:
- Group D showed a diminished ability to elevate HR after training (negative transfer).
- Group I's ability to modify HR was not significantly changed by training.
- The results indicate an asymmetry in the effects of unidirectional HR biofeedback training.
Conclusions:
- Voluntary heart rate speeding and slowing may reflect distinct, non-interchangeable capacities.
- Unidirectional biofeedback training to decrease HR can negatively impact the ability to increase HR.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of voluntary cardiovascular control.