The Treatment of Recalcitrant Post-traumatic Nightmares with Autogenic Training and Autogenic Abreaction: A Case Study

Author: Sadigh M.R.

Source: Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback, Volume 24, Number 3, September 1999 , pp. 203-210(8)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Recurrent and frightening dreams are commonly experienced by patients who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder after a motor vehicle accident. Such nocturnal episodes, if left untreated, can result in the experience of severe distress with physical, emotional, and psychophysiological concomitant. The present single-case study investigated the effects of the standard autogenic exercises and autogenic abreaction in reducing the frequency and severity of post-traumatic nightmares in a survivor of a car crash. The patient was also instructed in two additional organ-specific formulas in order to improve her sleep. The results of the study showed that the interventions were successful in effectively treating the patient's distressing nightmares. Follow-up data suggested that the treatment effects persisted after the termination of therapy. Suggestions for future investigations are discussed.

Keywords: posttraumatic nightmares; post-traumatic stress disorder; autogenic training; autogenic abreaction; autogenic neutralization

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Good Shepherd Hospital and Cedar Crest College. Department of Psychology, Good Shepherd Hospital, Allentown, PA 18103

Publication date: 1999-09-01