Abstract

This study investigated the experiences of clients who completed a brief heart rate variability biofeedback protocol. The purposes of this study were to (1) learn about client experiences of biofeedback because almost no previous research has done so and (2) explore the potential role of common factors in biofeedback. Fifteen clients were interviewed and their data analyzed according to the methods of Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR; Hill, 2012). CQR relies on the use of group consensus to construct representations of participant experiences and categorize themes within the data. The results of the study showed that participants generally experienced the HRVB+ protocol as helpful. They typically expressed that the intervention helped them with their anxiety or stress and that it increased their self-efficacy concerning their ability to manage anxiety or stress. Several domains emerged that captured data about the biofeedback therapist. Though more research is undoubtedly needed, the findings of this study provide some preliminary support for the idea that common factors could play a role in biofeedback interventions.

Degree

PhD

College and Department

Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Psychology

Rights

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