EFFECTIVENESS OF AUTOGENIC TRAINING ON REDUCING ANXIETY DISORDERS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

Authors

  • Ahsan Huda Yumkhaibam Research Scholar, Department of Physical Education, Tripura University, Tripura, India
  • Sm Farooque Guest Faculty, Department of Physical Education, Tripura University, Tripura, India
  • Sanjib Kumar Bhowmik Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Education, Tripura University, Tripura, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejpe.v10i3.5059

Keywords:

autogenic training, anxiety disorders, meta-analysis, relaxation techniques, therapeutic interventions

Abstract

Background: Autogenic training (AT) is a relaxation technique that has garnered attention for its potential to reduce anxiety and improve psychological well-being. Objectives: This study aims to synthesize the findings from a diverse range of studies investigating the relationship between autogenic training and anxiety disorder across different populations and settings. Methods: A comprehensive review of 162 studies, including randomised controlled trials (RCTs), non-randomized controlled trials (N-RCTs), surveys, and meta-analysis, was conducted out of these 29 studies were selected which is directly related to the objectives of the studies. Participants in the studies had conditions such as cancer patients, bulimia nervosa, stroke survivors, coronary angioplasty, nursing students, healthy volunteers, athletes, and so on. Anxiety levels were measured before and after the AT intervention using a variety of anxiety assessment scales, including the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The formats, duration, and delivery of the interventions varied, with some studies utilising guided sessions by professionals and other self-administered practises. Results: The combined findings of these studies revealed consistent trends in the beneficial effects of autogenic training on anxiety reduction. AT was found to be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms across a wide range of populations and settings. Following AT interventions, participants reported reduced anxiety, improved mood states, and improved coping mechanisms. AT was found to be superior to no treatment or a comparable intervention in a number of cases. Conclusion: The body of evidence supports autogenic training as a non-pharmacological approach to reducing anxiety and improving psychological well-being. Despite differences in methodology and participant profiles, the studies show that AT has a positive impact on a wide range of populations. The findings merit further investigation and highlight AT's potential contribution to anxiety management strategies.

 

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Author Biographies

  • Ahsan Huda Yumkhaibam, Research Scholar, Department of Physical Education, Tripura University, Tripura, India

    About the Author(s)

    Ahsan Huda Yumkhaibam (correspondent author), Research Scholar, Department of Physical Education, Tripura University (A Central University), Agartala, India. Author’s contribution: study designed, data collection, statistical analysis, data interpretation, manuscript preparation, literature search.

    ORCID: orcid.org/0009-0000-8311-5724

    Email: ahsanhudaybm222@gmail.com

  • Sm Farooque, Guest Faculty, Department of Physical Education, Tripura University, Tripura, India

    SM Farooque, Guest Faculty, Department of Physical Education, Tripura University (A Central University), Agartala, India. Author’s contribution: study design, data collection, statistical analysis, data interpretation, manuscript preparation, literature search, and proof reading.

    ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-1018-6745

    Email: smharish9@gmail.com

  • Sanjib Kumar Bhowmik, Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Education, Tripura University, Tripura, India

    Sanjib Kumar Bhowmik, Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Education, Tripura University (A Central University), Agartala, India. Author contribution: study designed, manuscript preparation and proof-reading.

    ORCID: orcid.org/0009-0008-5222-8572

    Email: sanjibbhowmik@tripurauniv.ac.in

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Published

2023-09-26

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 3 (2023)

Section

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