Deconditioning and ad hoc uses of relaxation: an overview.
Muscle relaxation is one of the most effective means at our disposal for diminishing emotional stress. In the context of behavior therapy it has featured in systematic programs to overcome anxiety response habits. Its original usage by Jacobson was an ad hoc measure for meeting tensions as they arose, as well as for ongoing tensions. This usage also often results in diminution of anxiety response habits--inadvertently. It has been found of value in the treatment of migraine and tension headaches, insomnia and essential hypertension, and also in at least some cases of Type A personality. There is reason to think that in normal populations relaxation training may have a role in the prevention of neuroses.
D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D001143:Arousal; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003213:Conditioning, Psychological; D003887:Desensitization, Psychologic / Q000379:methods; D006184:Habits; D006801:Humans; D009119:Muscle Contraction; D009126:Muscle Relaxation; D011602:Psychophysiologic Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D014434:Type A Personality