Abbreviated upright Behavioral Relaxation Training for test anxiety among college students: Initial results.

Abstract

Effect of abbreviated upright Behavioral Relaxation Training (BRT) on two self-report measures of test anxiety was examined using a quasi-experimental pre-post between groups (N = 20) research design with selfreferred college students. At time 1 (T1) assessment, all participants completed the Abbreviated Test Anxiety Scale (ATAS) and were trained in the use of the Subjective Unit of Discomfort (SUD) rating scale. Participants recorded SUD ratings in vivo over a one-week period. Experimental group participants received two group sessions of upright BRT with instructions to practice BRT in vivo. Control group participants simply recorded SUD ratings during the intervention period. At time 2 (T2) assessment, all participants provided SUD rating data and completed the ATAS. Correlated t-tests indicated statistically significant differences in ATAS and SUD ratings in favor of abbreviated BRT. Robust effect, despite small sample size, provides further evidence for the effectiveness of BRT as an easy to learn, rapid relaxation training procedure for anxiety disorders. Application of abbreviated BRT in a group setting is a significant advance. Replication using a larger sample size with measurement of relaxed behavior and effect on academic performance is needed.