Self-control, biofeedback, and change in 'psychosomatic' approach

The new psychosomatic treatment modalities of biofeedback and relaxation techniques have in common an emphasis on self-control or self-regulation. The surging popularity of the self-control techniques at present may reflect a change in the self-image of medicine, which emphasizes its role as a collaborator of the patient in his self-control of disease processes. The modern concept of psychosomatic medicine emphasizes a systems or field approach to evaluation and treatment rather than 'psychogenic' causes of physical illness. The self-control treatment modalities form an important part of the armamentaria of a modern 'psychosomaticist'. We present preliminary data suggesting that 'potentiation' of biofeedback treatment may be useful. In borderline hypertensives, using pharmacologic means to reduce blood pressure during a biofeedback session may help subjects identify and re-create the 'low blood pressure states' without further aid of drugs. Hypertensives seeking biofeedback treatment are extremely internal in locus of control and tend to generalize their self-control to other areas of life to foster health and to prevent illness.