Effectiveness of frontalis feedback training in producing general body relaxation

Although it is common for EMG frontalis feedback to be used to train general relaxation, there is a growing literature that challenges its use. This experiment explored whether successful frontalis EMG training produces concomitant covariation of autonomic nervous system indicators of decreased arousal and tension for highly anxious subjects. Twenty-four subjects were divided into groups receiving either frontalis feedback training, motivated constant-tone control, or motivated self-relaxation control procedures. Analysis showed that feedback training led to significantly lower frontalis levels, but similar effects were not found for heart rate, skin conductance levels, or respiration rate. The results suggest that even successful EMG frontalis feedback is not accompanied by anticipated reduction in related physiological descriptors. The use of frontalis tension level as an index of general tension is also discussed.