title: Game-based biofeedback for paediatric anxiety and depression.
abstract: Twenty-four children and adolescents aged 9-17 who were referred for treatment for anxiety were assigned to either a game-based biofeedback group or a waiting list comparison group. The eight-session biofeedback intervention included psychoeducation, identification of triggers and signs of anxiety, and in vivo practice. The intervention used computer-based gaming technology to teach and practise relaxation. Analyses using ANCOVA revealed significant differences in post-test scores of anxiety and depression measures between the two groups. The intervention group reduced anxiety and depression scores on standardised tests. Findings suggest that biofeedback-assisted relaxation training can be useful in decreasing anxiety and depressive symptoms in anxious youths.
authors.affiliation: Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Knox
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Lentini
authors.forename: Ts
authors.initials: Ts
authors.lastname: Cummings
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: McGrady
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Whearty
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Sancrant