Behavior Therapy in the Treatment of Epilepsy: An Application of Applied Relaxation

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of the studies presented here was to provide controlled data on the usefulness of behavioral interventions in reducing epileptic seizures and to provide a theoretical explanation of the psychological mechanisms at work. In Study 1, a single subject replication series, patient recognition of early cues and application of a contingent relaxation technique was found to be useful in reducing seizures. Study 2, a controlled group study, confirmed the seizure reducing effects of the relaxation skill used in high risk seizure situations. In Study 3, a broad spectrum behavioral intervention strategy was used, allowing for individual variation in seizure patterns and arousal levels. It was found that teaching the person with epilepsy to recognize his/her particular pattern of early seizure cues and arousal level, and to react with an appropriate counter measure was relatively more successful in reducing seizures than teaching the standard technique of relaxation. Study 4 investigated, under la...